Consider this as one reason why girls have more anxiety than boys… girls use social media in different (and more harmful) ways than boys.

Girls tend to post more pictures of themselves (usually looking cute). Boys tend to post more pictures of themselves doing something (or achieving something). If a girl does not get many “likes” for a photo of herself, she is likely to dwell and internalize the meaning (i.e. no one thinks she is pretty). If a boy does not get many “likes” for a picture of him receiving a medal/award, it doesn’t matter so much because he already got his recognition.

Girls tend to seek more external validation for their self-worth and physical appearance. Boys seem to have more internal validation. As a girl reaches adolescence she is likely to be less happy with her body. The opposite is true for boys.

When girls turn to social media for validation, their self-esteem is at risk.

Fragile self-esteem, an excessive need for external validation, and too much screen-time equal more anxiety for girls.

This is something to be aware of as you raise your daughter in this very challenging time in history. I have not finished raising my daughters (do we ever?) so I am on this road with you. Let’s support each other by keeping the conversation alive.

Here’s to raising strong, resilient daughters.

 

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Licensed counselor and founder of Girls Stand Strong Michelle Kelley, LCSW, helps girls and women of all ages develop and improve their self-image, self-esteem, relationship and communication skills, emotional understanding, coping skills, the ability to handle difficult situations and people, and resiliency to create a brighter, better and more successful tomorrow. For more information about Michelle’s coaching and counseling services, call (703) 505-2413 or email michelle@girlsstandstrong.com.