Is puberty worse for boys or for girls?

Dear Juna

Thank you very much for your question. It’s not possible to make a general statement about whether puberty is ‘worse’ for boys or girls, as what constitutes ‘worse’ differs between boys and girls. Research tends to show different patterns of distress rather than a clear difference.

Girls are more likely to experience internalising problems during puberty (i.e. mental health issues where the distress is directed inwards rather than being visible in their behaviour towards others). The rates of depression and anxiety disorders rise significantly from around the ages of 12 to 14, and more sharply in girls than in boys. Eating disorders and self-harming behaviour are also more common. Added to this are often greater levels of stress relating to body image and relationships (friendships, social media). Physical maturation begins earlier, which can be an additional risk factor for precocious girls.

Boys are more likely to display externalising problems: rule-breaking, aggression, risk-taking behaviour and substance use. This is usually more noticeable to those around them and is more quickly perceived as ‘difficult’. At the same time, the risk of completed suicide is higher among boys, whilst girls are more likely to attempt suicide. Boys are also less likely to seek help, which means that internal distress can go unnoticed for longer. The onset of puberty is later, which can be stressful for boys who mature late.

What is often misunderstood: For those around them, puberty is often noisier in boys, whilst for the girls themselves, on average, it is more emotionally stressful. However, this is a group average. The differences within each gender are much greater than between them, and factors such as family, peers, school and individual predisposition play at least as significant a role.

I hope this has answered your question to some extent.

Warm regards

Chantal