One reason girls feel so negative about themselves is that they are continuously barraged by picture-perfect images of girls and women in magazines and on television. Once a girl knows that most people look like the ones she sees in her everyday life, she will likely feel more satisfied with her own looks. Give her a journal. Girls experience many conflicting emotions during their preteen and adolescent years, and expressing their thoughts and feelings by writing ina diary or journal is a proven way for them to boost their self-esteem. Encourage her to share her thoughts and opinions.
Studies show that girls are more frequently interrupted than boys.
Over the course of many conversations, they also get the message that what they have to say is not necessarily as compelling or valued as what boys have to say. Compounding this subtle conditioning is the fact that boys often feel threatened by smart, outspoken girls. However, adults can help girls move forward on this front by conveying that their thoughts are important and that their unique viewpoints should be shared. If a girl learns to use her voice confidently on a regular basis, and people listen and respect her, she starts charting a course for higher self-esteem. Encourage her to take risks.