As a father of a 14-year-old daughter, I can empathise with parents whose daughters have misbehaved. Teenagers, especially those between 12 and 15 years old, go through a difficult stage of growing up. Just by being there is often enough for them.

As Singaporeans tend to work too late and hard, sometimes without much choice, it is important to spare quality time for our children.

My only daughter comes home alone after school to an empty house. As parents, we often worry whether she will fall into bad company.

We talk often with her on the kinds of friends she makes and e-mail or chat online with her from our offices just to make sure she is all right.

When my wife and I were on working trips abroad once, she had to stay in my brother's home for almost a month.

She was unhappy and felt abandoned. It was a difficult period for her and we kept in touch with her constantly over the telephone and Internet, to assure her that we loved her despite the distance.

As Singapore continues to develop, let us think of all ways to maintain our family ties despite the many challenges and lack of time. If not, we will see more of our youth getting into trouble. The responsibility lies with us, as parents.

Gilbert Goh
Hubei China