Under Pressure

More about the book

Anxiety has notably increased among young people, particularly in girls, with a 55% rise in those reporting feelings of nervousness, worry, or fear from 2009 to 2014, while boys' experiences remained stable. As a clinical psychologist specializing in girls, Lisa Damour, Ph.D., has observed this trend in her research and practice, prompting her to explore this topic in her new book. In her engaging and reassuring style, Damour begins by discussing the realities of psychological pressure, highlighting the often-overlooked benefits of stress and anxiety. She explains how stress can encourage growth beyond comfort zones and how anxiety can serve as a protective mechanism for girls. By reframing these emotions positively, parents can help their daughters manage them more effectively. However, recognizing the risks of emotional overload is crucial. Damour examines various aspects of girls' lives where stress manifests, including family dynamics, academic pressures, social interactions, and the impact of social media. Throughout the book, readers will discover essential strategies for adults to mitigate the harmful cultural pressures that affect girls today. This work builds on Damour's previous successes and her contributions to understanding and supporting the challenges faced by contemporary girls.