The disappearing girl

the long version

Teen girls receive dangerously conflicting messages from media, peers, and even parents about what it means to look and act just right, to be good, hip, attractive, and desired. Frighteningly, everyday events can start a teen on a downward spiral. The growing rate of depression in teens is alarming, and parents must understand the difference between "normal adolescent angst" and trouble. This book explores: why silence reflects a girl's desperate wish for inclusion, not isolation; recognizing signals in problem behavior; vulnerabilities in dating, friendships, school, and family. Machoian also offers guidance for parents on starting meaningful conversations with their daughters and helping them navigate mixed messages, develop their identity, make healthy decisions, and build resilience that will empower them throughout life; and for daughters--activities, including the Emotional First-Aid Kit, that girls can use to de-stress and build character.--From publisher description.