I can't get the add/remove programs to open so I can remove unwanted programs. What  can I do?

Ms Jackson,
Your are on the verge of a major corruption from spyware.
There are two things to try.  Both are based on a procedure to confirm that you have a full set of the original Win files.

The best is to use the Windows program disk and the first R function you come to.
This R function will provide you with a black screen and a c prompt.
type in check disk as "chkdsk"/

You will be asked for the pass word to the administrator account - if you don't have it the chkdsk progam will not run - in XP Pro.  Maybe so in XP Home.

The next procedure is to use the windows "SFC" program.

Log into window and at the run command type:       sfc /scandisk

Your will need the Win XP CD in the drive as it most probably will ask fpr it.

If these do not work you will need to wipe the HD clean and reinstall the windows program.
This procedur is almost inevitable (?)  As I said, you most probably have major corruption and need a major overhaul

Nothin's easy

Sail on
Sundance

   There are other things besides a "major corruption from spyware" that can be causing that.  If you suspect spyware, run a spyware cleaner.  I would not suggest wiping the HD clean.  I would more suspect a virus doing that than spyware.  If it is a virus, you can run an antivirus program to clean it.  Or find out which virus it is and then find how to remove that virus online.
   Another possibility is that you somehow deleted the appwiz.cpl file in the Windows/system32 folder.
   Here are some suggestions to remedy or work around the problem:

• Find the appwiz.cpl file online and put it in the Windows/system32 folder
  
• Use our free Add/Remove Pro program or the Add/Remove Editor part of RegVac (for more information on RegVac Registry Cleaner go to http://www.superwin.com/regvac.htm to see what is in Add/Remove Programs and remove or uninstall the items you want.
  
• Another way to uninstall a program is to go to that programs folder in Start - All Programs or in Windows Explorer and run the uninstall link.