All I can say is ignorance and arrogance will kill

As a leader and the most experienced of the team, letting an inexperienced wife and son each hike solo at high altitude and in the darkness for long periods of time is extremely irresponsible and selfish.  It puts everyone at higher risk, including the leader himself (e.g. the 3 hour wait at the summit). The son does not need to learn to be independent.  The father needs to learn team work, wilderness safety, and responsibility...

One may get lucky once but sooner or later luck will run out if no lesson is learned from this experience... No equipment and gear in the world will give your the proper protection if one starts off with the wrong attitude and mind set.