Why Your Daughter’s Friendships Are Stressing Her Out (And How to Help)
Unpacking the social pressures of adolescent friendships and giving parents tools to support their daughters.
The Drama of Numbers: Why Group Size Matters
Friendship groups of four or five or more often bring increased drama and conflict. Small groups provide predictability and emotional safety, reducing social anxiety.
Empathy: A Blessing and a Burden
Girls’ heightened empathy means they absorb friends’ emotional pain, which can increase their own anxiety and rumination.
Conflict Styles: Bulldozer, Doormat, and Pillar
Unhealthy conflict styles escalate tension. Teaching girls to be pillars—assertive yet respectful—promotes healthier relationships.
Social Media: The Double-Edged Sword
Online interactions can amplify misunderstandings and make conflict harder to resolve. Encouraging face-to-face conversations is critical.
Choosing Battles Wisely
Not every conflict needs confrontation. Encouraging girls to pick their battles preserves emotional energy and maintains civility.
How Parents Can Help
Model calm communication, encourage empathy balanced with self-care, and foster open dialogue about friendships and feelings.
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