How to Build Self Esteem in Girls

A girl's self-esteem usually peaks when she is about nine years old, then proceeds to decline as she enters her teen years, according to Anita Gurian, PhD, at the New York University School of Medicine. The media may give her unrealistic expectations about body image, sexual behavior, and interests, lowering self-esteem in a girl who does not look like the actors on television or who cares more about mathematics than cooking. Building her self-esteem from a young age can help her maintain confidence in all life's endeavors.

Instructions

• 1

  Encourage the girls in your life to pursue their interests. Don't push them in the direction you prefer or in the direction that is most feminine. Allow them to make their own choices about what they want to do and learn.

• 2

  Allow your girls to try things, even if they fail. Letting them do things themselves encourages future independence. Gurian emphasizes that fathers especially should allow their daughters to try things on their own, so they do not always rely on men for help.

• 3

  Don't give in to stereotypes in your home. If a tire needs changing, get the girls involved instead of just the boys.

• 4

  Play sports or work out with your girls. Set an example of physical health and get them involved, as Gurian says female athletes perform better academically and stay in school more consistently than girls not involved in athletics.

• 5

  Discuss the media's unrealistic portrayal of women with your girls. Point out common anxieties girls and teenagers have--such as body insecurities and a desire to shop--and undermine advertisements by discussing how they make girls want these things in order to be "cool." Don't lecture your girls; open discussion by asking them questions.

• 6

  Compliment the girls in your life on their talents and ideas in addition to their looks. Encourage their curiosity, praise their intelligence, and compliment them on their individuality.