GENDER DYNAMICS

Adolescent girls have a much higher prevalence of depression and eating disorders, according to the 2002 article Gender and Mental Health

by the World Health Organization. This can be largely attributed to the drastic changes they go through in their physical appearance during puberty – causing elevated body image concerns. The article further noted that adolescent girls had more suicidal tendencies than boys their age. That said, while girls are more prone to symptoms that are directed inwardly, boys are more prone to act out.