Control Panel Error Message

[MissMolly]

When I click on Control Panel, I get an error message that says "Microsoft has experienced a problem and must shut down". Or, I get into Control Panel and click on a title, and I get this message.  ;)This happens quite frequently and I have no idea where to start to try to run down the problem. Any ideas? Thank you.       I am running Windows XP (home) with IE 7.0

[ale52]

Need...more...info...gasp 

Operating system / antivirus & antispyware protection / service packs installed / when did it start happening / did it ever work right / installed any new software?

Alan <>< 

[Raptor]

Scan for Viruses, Spyware and trojan horses.

Use Firefox, not IE..

[MissMolly]

I have Avast, Spydoctor, AdAware  ???and Registry Mechanic. Nothing new installed that I can remember. Not sure when it started happening...has been an annoyance I have ignored while doing other things. Yes, it did work fine when first installed.  OS is Windows XP Home with currently updated. I have scanned the computer completely. I am just stumped as to what else to do to look for problem......

[Raptor]

Install AVG Free and scan in safe mode.