Mary Pipher: 'Adolescence is when girls experience social pressure to put aside their authentic selves and to display only a small portion of their gifts.'

Adolescence is when girls experience social pressure to put aside their authentic selves and to display only a small portion of their gifts.

Adolescence is undoubtedly a pivotal time in a girl's life, characterized by numerous changes and challenges. Mary Pipher's quote, 'Adolescence is when girls experience social pressure to put aside their authentic selves and to display only a small portion of their gifts,' encapsulates a significant aspect of this stage. Pipher suggests that societal expectations and norms often force young girls to suppress their true selves and showcase only a limited set of abilities. This unfortunate reality underscores the importance of nurturing and empowering girls to embrace their authenticity, encouraging them to exhibit their full range of talents and capabilities.The quote by Pipher resonates with many individuals who have experienced the tumultuous journey of adolescence. It highlights the pressure placed upon young girls to conform to societal standards and expectations. During this period, girls are often bombarded with messages that suggest they should prioritize certain aspects of themselves, such as physical appearance or social status, over others. This emphasis on external validation can lead to the suppression of their authentic selves, as they strive to fit into molds pre-determined by society.However, to add an unexpected philosophical twist to this discussion, let's explore the concept of existentialism. In philosophy, existentialism posits that individuals are responsible for creating their own essence and meaning in life. It emphasizes the importance of embracing one's authenticity and taking ownership of one's choices. In contrast to societal pressures, existentialism encourages individuals, including young girls, to resist conforming to external expectations and instead develop their own unique identities.Existentialism offers a fresh perspective on Pipher's quote. It challenges the idea that girls should succumb to the pressure of displaying only a small portion of their gifts. Instead, it invites them to embrace their full selves and acknowledge the enormous potential that lies within. By rejecting the notion that they should be confined to predefined roles and limitations, young girls can embark on a journey of self-actualization and genuine self-expression.So, how can we encourage and empower girls to overcome these social pressures and embrace their authentic selves? Firstly, fostering an environment of acceptance and support is crucial. Girls should be encouraged to explore their interests, passions, and talents without fear of judgment or restriction. Providing access to diverse role models who exemplify authenticity across different domains can also be invaluable. Given that adolescents often look to their peers for guidance and validation, promoting positive narratives around authenticity and diversity can help challenge prevailing social pressures.Moreover, empowering girls to develop a healthy sense of self-esteem and self-worth is paramount. Building resilience and teaching them to value their own opinions, emotions, and aspirations allows them to navigate societal pressures with confidence and authenticity. It is essential to cultivate an atmosphere where girls are celebrated for their unique qualities, encouraging them to showcase their many gifts rather than concealing them.Ultimately, the quote by Mary Pipher brings forth a critical issue affecting many girls during adolescence. By highlighting the social pressure to abandon their authentic selves, Pipher prompts us to reflect on the importance of nurturing and empowering young girls. The unexpected philosophical concept of existentialism adds depth to the discussion, encouraging individuals to resist societal expectations and instead embrace their full range of talents and potential. In doing so, we can contribute to the formation of a society that values and celebrates girls for who they truly are, helping them to flourish as they embark on their journey into adulthood.