Contrary to stereotypes, only 11 percent of mothers on welfare are teenagers. Children from racial minority groups are much more likely to live in poverty than are white children. Recent changes in the welfare system discourage some girls from continuing their education and becoming economically self-sufficient. This review of an extensive body of recent work on key issues in the lives of adolescent girls leads to five overarching conclusions. These perspectives should underlie efforts by adults, communities, and all others working to meet the needs of adolescent girls and enrich their opportunities.
Girls are multidimensional individuals with diverse perspectives, needs, and developmental contexts.
Girls can benefit from programs and strategies that build on their strengths and encourage them to explore meaningful possibilities for their futures. Research must continue to play a role in deepening our understanding of girls' needs and how to respond to them. Researchers, advocates, public officials, and funders should collaborate to articulate, fund, and promote a research agenda. Girls require and deserve the awareness, attention, and commitment of a wide range of individuals and institutions to promote their healthy development. Parents should continue to play the primary role in supporting girls' development.