Phua Cynthia, the root problem is there for all to see: that you have to ask a 17 yo his "employment status" already shows the depth of problems facing Singaporean families.
The root problem is how Singaporeans cannot earn enough to feed themselves because their jobs pay too lowly.
The root problem is that the PAP is happy to let wages depressed further so that Singapore's overall economy can grow.
The root problem is right there for you to see. Pick up a mirror and look intently into it Phua Cynthia. YOU ARE PART OF THE ROOT PROBLEM!