Dadtalk

My 12 (almost 13) year old daughter adores me. She is just starting to develop into a young woman. Should I be careful how much I hug her - I don't want to be accused of being some kind of pervert? But I've heard it said that a father's affection will help keep young women from seeking sexual fulfillment with boyfriends...

How could you not hug your own daughter no matter what the age????

Physcial contact, esp. in the UK, appears to be really akward - but what are we if we cannot hold other people?

Yes definitely but not in public :oops:

Man - what has the world come to if a father can't hug his daughter...... What are we really suggesting here that every man is a peadophile???

Sure if your daughter doesn't want a hug don't do it - but she's your daughter and surely if she doesn't get physical affection like a hug from her dad won't she go somewhere else and get it??? Perhaps not at 12 but somepoint soon some spotty irk will come on the sceen after just one thing and if she is looking for affection we all know where that might end....

I say hug away - we all need hugs!

Buzz, got to say i tend to agree. I love my girl!

What about the boys though, at what age to we stop showing them that sort of affection?? :?:

I think in the interests of child safety it is very important for a father to have an affectionate relationship with his kids; helps to develop trust, security etc.

I still hug my mum and my dad. The affection my parents, particularly my dad, have shown me has helped cement my respect and love for them. I would never pull away from a hug if that's what my kids needed and wanted.

I agree buzz, hug away!