Does your daughter want to be a part of the elite group of popular girls at her school? Or is she a part of a popular group where she no longer feels like she can be herself? In this episode, child and adolescent therapist Hannah Leib walks us through the difference between popularity, power and authentic friendships in middle school. We discuss why some girls are pulled into the popularity trap, why great kids can be excluded, and how to support your daughter's self-confidence in a way that helps her develop authentic friendships.

KEY POINTS

During middle school, students may feel increased pressure to attain social status.

Research in teens has found two types of popularity: sociometric popularity and perceived popularity.

Research shows that supportive friendships can shield adolescents from the negative outcomes of bullying.

Adolescence can be an awkward and emotionally brutal time for many young people.

Parents and other caring adults can support adolescents with a few key strategies.

Knowing when to give them space and when not to and modeling healthy emotion regulation can help.

Anxiety disorders continue to rise, but we can take control.

An interview with Hannah Leib, LCSW on how she struggled with OCD through her childhood and teen years. Now, as a recovered and mentally healthy adult/ Licensed child & teen therapist, Hannah empowers her clients with OCD to thrive.

Here's a guide for parents whose children could experience this anxiety.

Today we’d like to introduce you to Hannah Leib.

The importance of early intervention and self-esteem in developing youth.

Dinner with eye rolls on the side.

A Personal Perspective: Finding self-love and confidence after cyberbullying.

A Personal Perspective: I was both shocked and relieved by my diagnosis.