If you are new to GEMS, welcome, if not, welcome back. As always,we hope that you find our site helpful as you and your daughter navigate through adolescence together. 

Please feel free to post comments or concerns directly onto our site or email us at info@gemsonline.org. I am going to try to keep this page updated with links on the most current information regarding your teenage daughter and the issues that she is facing, but I am always looking for better articles or websites.

The best way to help your daughter is to stay involved in her life and trust your instincts. Do not be afraid to create boundaries and consequences for her, she may not show it right away, but in time she will appreciate your care and protection. When she seems to be whining to you forever about the most seemingly mundane issues take a moment to realize that this is her life. How she handles these isssues are beginning to create the young woman she is growing into. Be patient. Stay informed. Ask for help - you’re not alone in this!

Please take a look at any of the sites linked to our article: Professional Help for the Tough Issues Girls Face. It has links for self harm, eating disorders, teen depression and much more.

Also, if you’d like read up on the research I have done on relational aggression please view the articles: What Research Says About Relational Aggression or Relational Aggression: Why Need Girl Groups and Prevention/Intervention Programs.

On sexual activity among teens I’ve included a survey from the National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy and CosmoGirl: Sex and Tech. Also, the Heritage Foundation posted an article on the link between sexual activity among teens and depression. The National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy’s website has some great information for parents as well.

Remember to keep talking to your teen, but more importantly listen to what she has to say. Try not to judge, but offer support and let her know that no matter what she is facing, she is not facing it alone.

Thank you for being involved in your daughter’s life and helping to make her a true GEM!