The content discusses the importance of recognizing and utilizing past research to understand and address modern issues in mental health, particularly the gender gap in teenage mental health. The article begins by highlighting the need to understand and maintain the relationship between adolescents and their parents, despite the argument made by Anna Freud that adolescents want to divorce their parents.
The article then delves into the issue of the gender gap in mental health, particularly the rising number of girls experiencing persistent sadness or hopelessness. However, the author critiques the tendency to solely blame social media for this issue and argues that researchers must consider gender differences in mental health issues.
The article goes on to argue that past research on gender differences in mental health is being ignored, highlighting Carol Gilligan’s 10-year research project on Enhancing Healthy Resilience and Courage in Girls. Gilligan’s research exposed the psychological dilemma faced by teenage girls as they are indoctrinated to conform to societal norms and educational standards while also trying to pursue their own aspirations.
The article concludes by emphasizing the need to rediscover lost frameworks, theories, and practices to better understand and address modern issues in mental health. Therapists who meet teenagers where they are and help them find their true voice can be particularly helpful.
Overall, the article highlights the importance of utilizing past research to understand and address modern issues in mental health, while also recognizing the psychological challenges faced by teenage girls in navigating societal norms and pursuing their own aspirations.