I surveyed about 1,500 teenagers 5 years ago when researching my book, "Nurturing Your Teenager's Soul" (Perigee). I was shocked, at the time, to learn that the number one source of stress was school and future schooling (i.e.: college admissions).
So, it was no surprise when I read the recently released Associated Press/MTV survey that indicated the same results:
"Among 13-17 year olds, school is by far the most commonly mentioned source of stress."
What is interesting about this survey is the following stats:
"45 percent of girls and young women reported experiencing stress frequently, to 32 percent of boys and young men. Those from urban areas experienced it more frequently than those in rural areas, and surprisingly, those from middle-income households had it more frequently than those from both lower and higher-income households. (Middle-income was defined as between $50,000 and $75,000.)"
And we wonder why eating disorders and alcohol abuse is at an all time high with our teenage daughters.
What to do?
-Talk to your daughters about school and what is and isn't working
-Talk to your daughter's schools about how they are addressing stress issues
-Make sure your daughter has ways to release her stress: sports, yoga, quiet time in her day, order in her home, an adult to talk to other than her parents
-Advocate for girls
-Read about the psychology of teens and girls in particular
-Knowledge is power...the college admissions process is NOT transparent...learn all you can so you can thoughtfully guide your daughter. Check out: www.DontWorryGetIn.com
-Read my book, "Nurturing Your Teenager's Soul" and start doing so
-Read my book, "Don't Worry: You'll Get In" and help your high school child gain clarity on the murky terrain of college admissions
-Visualize your son or daughter calm and at peace
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