ERIC Number: EJ1091761
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2015
Pages: 3
Abstractor: ERIC
ISBN: N/A
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The Perfect Girl Syndrome: Perfectionism and Self-Esteem in Gifted Girls
Worley, Cassie
Parenting for High Potential, v5 n1 p6-7, 15 Fall 2015
Considerable research has been published on society's expectations and attitudes toward females. Men think the most important qualities in the ideal woman are attractiveness, sexiness, and kindness. The media suggests females should value physical beauty and marriageability. Girls should be obedient, caring, pretty, and polite. These unreasonable expectations and attitudes can create serious internal strife and negative self-perceptions for gifted girls. When females are told from a very young age that looks and sex appeal are what count in this world, they begin to hide their talents and abilities. They begin judging themselves through the eyes of those around them, craving approval, while losing a sense of who they are and what they want to accomplish. Gifted girls' increased levels of awareness, sensitivity, and potential can also magnify their conflicts and losses. Parents and teachers need to be aware that their attitudes and beliefs have a great impact on female self-perception. This article discusses the roles of parental influences, school influence, and specialized counseling services in helping gifted females overcome perfectionism and become satisfied and successful adults. Suggested resources and strategies for parent and teacher interventions are included.
Descriptors: Academically Gifted, Females, Child Rearing, Psychological Patterns, Social Influences, Gender Bias, Self Esteem, Parent Influence, Self Concept, Parent Role, School Role, School Counseling
National Association for Gifted Children. 1331 H Street NW Suite 1001, Washington, DC 20005. Tel: 202-785-4268; Fax: 202-785-4248; e-mail: nagc@nagc.org; Web site: http://www.nagc.org/php.aspx
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
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