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Psycho-Babble. Even if this girl went willingly, this thing is NONE of our business. This girl is a private citizen and we are not entitled to the details of her or her family's private life.

Actually, it *is* our business, because people are going on trial. It's *the people* vs. Brian Mitchell, not "the Smarts" vs. Brian Mitchell.

Also, families need to be able to deal with teens who may do what Smart is suspected (by some) of doing. There are far more teens who run away than who are abducted by strangers, and understanding the circumstances of this bizarre case may help prevent other abductions - or abscondings - in the future.

I've gotta disagree with you. This girl is a MINOR. If it were not for the media feeding frenzy concerning this case, the court and police would take great take pains to shield her from public scrutiny. Yes, the creeps would go trial, but her face would not be plastered on television and you wouldn't know her name.

Now imagine this. What if these early reports about her running away with this hairball are untrue or misleading? Now we have rumours out there in the public about her suggesting that she is some sort of Lolita. Even though those rumours may prove untrue, her reputation is ruined.

As the father of an eight year old girl, one of my primary duties is to protect her honor and reputation. If you or anyone else started spreading unsubstantiated rumors about my daughter, I would, with all due respect, be required to jack your jaw.

"Also, families need to be able to deal with teens who may do what Smart is suspected (by some) of doing. There are far more teens who run away than who are abducted by strangers, and understanding the circumstances of this bizarre case may help prevent other abductions - or abscondings - in the future."

I have no problem with parents building relationships with that children that might prevent their running away. However, you do not have to drag this young 'un's name into it in order to make your point.

families need to be able to deal with teens who may do what Smart is suspected

Correct. Children need to bond with both parents to avoid being vulnerable to "father" or "mother" figures. Often, troubled teens turn to predators because of something lacking at home.

Of course, I'm not saying that's the Smart case. I'm merely agreeing with your summation.