Some 20 years ago, psychologist Steve Biddulph wrote a book called ‘Raising Boys’ that went on to sell a staggering 3 million copies.
He’s currently in the process of writing another book called ‘Raising Girls’ which came about after it was found that 1 in 5 girls suffer serious mental health problems, such as eating disorders, binge drinking, anxiety, depression and body image issues.
These issues aren’t new and began around 10 years ago when corporations recognised that there was a market for selling products that preyed upon their anxieties and lead girls to believe that their looks were all that mattered. This occurs so frequently that it has been referred to as “lookism”.
Things have certainly changed from the way things were 50 years ago and today older women have seemingly ‘disappeared’ from young girls’ lives.
Steve Biddulph is keen to start an ‘Aunty Movement.’ This would see older women with nieces taking an active role in their lives by spending time with them in a variety of ways like taking them out for coffee.
It’s not only aunties that should aim for an active presence in the lives of young girls, Fathers also have a key role to play in the development of young girls. Whilst Mums are responsible for providing a sense of security, Dads on the other hand are the key source of self esteem especially as they develop relationships with boys later on in life.
Steve Biddulph believes that we live in an infantile society and we need to realise that things come at a cost. We must also realise that we’re in this world for others and not ourselves.
Steve’s highly anticipated book, ‘Raising Girls’ is set for release in early 2013. Listen in to hear this inspirational interview!
Photo credit: Steve Biddulph