Colman Noctor: Pressure to be perfect undermines mental health of teen girls

American sociologist Jonathan Haidt suggests that girls, more than boys, engage in social media in ways that increase their emotional vulnerability. Picture: iStock 

A Shona Project survey suggests that teenage girls are struggling. This will likely come as no surprise to parents.

In today’s fast-paced, high-pressure world, raising adolescent girls can feel like walking a tightrope. One moment they’re laughing with friends, and, the next, they’re overwhelmed by anxiety, tears, or are withdrawn.