Today, I’m taking you to a girl fight. This disturbing behavior between teen girls has become entertainment for many when the videos are posted on YouTube and other social networking sites.
This epidemic is so new that there are few statistics on it, but Google or Bing “girl fights,” and you’ll see unlimited videos of this problem.
(And we’re all becoming more aware of aggressive behavior and bullying among teens in general; keep in mind that October is National Bullying Prevention Month.)
As you already know, teen girl arguments and squabbles are nothing new, but some of these ferocious girl fights are leaving some girls fighting for their lives with broken bones, irreversible brain damage and memory loss.
To add to this terrible trend, these fights are often happening as others sit back, watch and videotape the winner. It’s outrageous, and it’s out of control.
How do we help our teen girl avoid a girl fight?
1) First, she needs to find out why the other girl wants to fight her. Is it over something your teen did or said? Does your teen need to apologize?
It’s key to diminish the dispute quickly with words. If that doesn’t work, it’s important for your daughter to know how to protect herself without fighting.
2) Encourage her to put time and distance between her and the bully who wants to fight. Avoid the bully and avoid being alone.
3) Word spreads quickly amongst teens when fights are going to happen. Encourage her to talk to you or a responsible adult and let you or them know that she is a target of a girl fight.
4) As parents and grandparents, we all want to protect our teens, but there will be times in our lives when we won’t always be there. Our girls will need to know how to protect themselves in times of conflict.
If there is no getting around a girl fight, she’ll needs to know it’s important to protect her face, head and ribs from trauma and serious injuries. Consider a self-defense class or program.
None of us wants to think about our daughter or granddaughter fighting. Be the one she can come to in the time of need. You could help and teach her to be a strong young woman without the need of physical violence.
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. (Ephesians 6:10-11, NIV)
