New research on development and risk factors has increased our knowledge of adolescent girls and given those of us working with them more available information to aid our understanding of psychotherapy. Advancing social theory has also promoted an understanding of the problems that adolescent girls begin to face including gender discrimination and conflict around social roles. Educated therapists can utilize this information with their adolescent female patients, providing knowledge about choices available to girls and promoting understanding and problem-solving. Growing knowledge about the importance of relationships for this population also informs us about the therapeutic alliance. In summary, therapists working with adolescent girls face many challenges and also have increasing access to information that can aid them with this process.
PIP: In a discussion of current studies and case reports, the application of new information about adolescent girls to their successful treatment with psychotherapy is considered. Advances in our understanding of biological, social, psychological, and cultural development (including gender discrimination and conflict around social roles) can all be used to help therapists in their work. Data on family relationships are also invaluable as is information about the therapeutic alliance which makes possible the appropriate choice of a therapist and a therapeutic method. This article also considers 1) the components of a model for individual psychotherapy with adolescent girls, 2) how the therapist educates girls about choices and compromise, 3) how the therapist acts as a validator of change and interpreter of conflict, 4) exploring societal expectations, and 5) addressing risk-taking behavior.