Ever since we first heard the news that 16-year-old Abby Sunderland had lost communications and set off rescue beacons somewhere in the southern Indian Ocean last week, we’ve also been hearing about what lousy, irresponsible parents she has. Mostly from people no sane person would want as his or her own parents.

Abby was attempting to become the youngest person to complete a non-stop solo circumnavigation of the world when, halfway through her voyage, she ran into high winds and heavy seas. Her mast snapped off at the base, leaving her helpless and adrift without communications.

From what we’ve been hearing from various commentators, allowing her to go was the most abusive, reckless thing parents could possibly do. But their commentary says less about Laurence and Marianne Sunderland’s parenting skills than it does about their own. Read more »