My teenage daughter’s so preoccupied with her body it’s driving me nuts. She’s always in the bathroom and constantly complains that she’s fat and ugly when she isn’t. Should I be worried?

Constant exposure to idealised images damages self-esteem and body image, especially for girls, while late-night phone use disrupts sleep and emotional regulation

Hyper-independence can come about in children who have experienced parentification, emotional neglect, the loss of a parent or caregiver or inconsistent caregiving

First-time fathers face sleepless nights, learning curves and emotional shifts. Experts stress presence over perfection, teamwork with partners, early bonding and prioritising mental wellbeing.

Psychologists say a father’s protection extends beyond physical safety, helping shape a child’s emotional security, confidence, resilience, and healthy development into adulthood.

My children are a real handful. They’re disrespectful and aggressive, especially my oldest, who’ll soon be a teen. And I’m worried that the others are going the same way. What can I do?

The most common form of violence inflicted on a child is physical punishment. It can have serious effects on physical and mental wellbeing in childhood and adulthood

Psychologists say children’s behaviour is often a reflection of unmet emotional needs and that connection, not punishment, is the foundation of healthy development

Absolute independence is an illusion, and a lonely one at that. The real, more profound goal of raising a human being is not independence but interdependence

As screens, busy schedules and modern parenting reshape family life, experts warn that kindness, patience and respect must now be taught more intentionally than ever

The first day feels beautiful, you take photos and feel proud, but soon the real work begins, with fees, shopping lists, and the realisation that the term is a marathon

My small children have started telling lies! Does that mean I’m a terrible mother? What am I doing wrong? What can I do to encourage them to be honest?