Maxine Johnson is Laura's best friend. A few times, she has convinced Laura to do things that her father Carl would never approve of, such as going to the Sizzle Club in skimpy outfits or get back at Eddie by inviting all his former girlfriends to a party. Apparently, as revealed in Season 6's Par For the Course, this is because, as she reveals, her parents are very neglectful and don't care about her at all. This is similar to the way Steve's own parents treat him with contempt and it's implied that she relates to him because of it. When Laura complained about Harriette ruining her social life, Maxine snaps and tells her off she should appreciate having her be protective of her. She wishes she had Harriette as her own mother because at least she would benefit from it. Maxine also wishes t