When Do They Change?

Looking at this picture, it is easy to see how "out there" little girls can be. Some are hams. They are so comfortable in their own skin. Whether outgoing or shy, if they are raised with love and acceptance, they will be rooted in the belief that they are a gift to their parents and society. Their childhood is carefree and spirited. Until somewhere between the ages of ten and fifteen when it all changes.

She becomes aware of herself as a female among other females. She becomes now aware of societal role models. She becomes aware of men and what they idealize. She becomes aware of how perfectly she fits the mold or doesn't fit the mold. And, for the rest of her teens, she will measure herself to ideals. Hopefully, after her teens, when college comes with its "decade of the brain," she will realize that personality and intelligence carry a lot of weight. Hopefully, she will become comfortable in her own skin and reach her arms across her chest and hug herself.