Hormonal Changes in Teen Girls
Hormonal changes in girls are usually characterized by changes in the way they look, how they feel about themselves and their weight and height. The rate at which these transformations occur vary with the girl. Some girls will show gradual changes while others develop more rapidly. They might feel awkward or self-conscious and will need assurance that they are lovable and beautiful. Parents can help by reassuring them and supporting their efforts in school, community, or at home.
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Physical Maturation
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Teenage girls begin to physically mature between the ages of 8 and 13 years when the pituitary gland increases production of estrogen, according to the Lucile Packard Children̵7;s Hospital at Stanford. Pubescent girls usually begin to develop breasts and pubic hair. By the time they are 12 years old, they might develop underarm hair, and begin to menstruate between the ages of 10 and 16. As the body begins to fill out, they become sexually attractive to the opposite sex, and now that they menstruate, they have the ability to conceive a child. Parents should openly talk with them about the consequences of sexual intercourse.
Mental Maturation
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Teenage girls begin to think in more complex manners, and where they might have been quiet and inexpressive in the family or classroom before, they now express themselves openly, and sometimes rudely. According to the Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada, teenagers begin to question their role and decide who they want to be and how they want to present themselves. This can be a challenging time for parents, but they can guide them through this period by promoting good decision-making and respecting their privacy.
Emotional Maturation
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As hormones surge, teenage girls might become moody and insecure. Their appearance becomes all important to them, and they often feel embarrassed by the slightest affront. Where parents might have had a normally gregarious and affectionate girl before, they now might find it difficult to keep up with her fluctuating moods. The Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada suggests encouraging them to share their emotions, and parents can reciprocate -- when appropriate. Hearing about some of a parent̵7;s experiences when they were that age lets them know their feelings are not unique to them and that they are normal.
Social Maturation
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Seeking autonomy is a normal aspect of adolescence. Most teenage girls want to spend more time with friends and less time with parents, and they might challenge parents in ways they have never done before. The Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada advises parents to be supportive and guide their daughters, but be realistic. Some battles are worth fighting and others are not, so compromise when it is prudent. Trying to loosen the reins and hold on to them at the same time -- to keep them from making irreparable mistakes -- are daunting tasks for parents.
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