Teen girls are amazing and shouldn’t get a bad rap, according to a popular ER pediatrician’s viral video
“Dr. Beachgem,” a super popular pediatric ER physician is once again dropping knowledge on her popular TikTok channel, but this time, it isn’t about anything medical-related. Dr. Beachgem, who is also a mom of four, is known for her hot takes on prevalent illnesses, injuries, dangers, and things to look out for when it comes to kids and even teens. But this time, she has some very good news to share about a typically shamed demographic of people—teen girls.
With the rise of people being hateful about tweens and teens having a skin care routine and a Sephora addiction, Dr. Beachgem is saying how amazing it is to be a parent to a teen girl and is attempting to get parents of toddlers and babies hope that it does indeed get better, and it’s actually pretty cool.
In her now viral video, Dr. Beachgem began, “I happen to be a mom of a teenage girl, and let me tell you, it’s actually pretty great!”
One fan agreed and commented, “I will never understand the stigma of having a daughter. I’m so excited to see who mine becomes!”
“She’s like a really interesting and rational human that is functional and does things, we have these really cool conversations,” she continued, “No more like unhinged toddler conversations.”
She added that of course, the fact that she’s fully sleep-trained and there are no more diapers is pretty great, even though there are other expenses that come with having a teen girl. “But she actually has a job and helps contribute to those expenses,” Beachgem said.
Beachgem said her daughter actually asks really good questions these days, like “Where are the pockets? Why is that so expensive?” and “Why don’t law enforcement and paramedics get paid more?”
She also loves that her daughter is finally able to help around the house with dishes and laundry. “Yeah, sometimes you have to ask a couple of times, but it still gets done and it gets done pretty well,” she said.
Beachgem gushed about how her daughter made sushi bowls for dinner one night and they were way better than she would have made herself. “Like through the freezing and the salt washing and the sugar washing, and then even cleaning up!
”All of these phases of childhood that we are parenting through have their challenges and their benefits, and it’s definitely a trade off,” Beachgem continued. “And certainly there are eyerolls and an attitude and leadership skills … but I am so excited to see what she does when she grows up, and I am so proud of her every single day.”
“I looooove that so many moms are starting to appreciate their teen girls,” one parent said in the comments. “They do NOT have to have contentious relationships with their moms. Thank you for this!!”
Another mom commented, “I have an almost 14-year-old. I’m loving this age. I feel like no one tells you how great teenagers are.”
Beachgem said she is still holding on for dear life to these last couple of years. “All the terrible things that they say about raising teenage girls and how terrible it is, I want you to know that it can also be really great.”
“They’re still your kid. And they’re still amazing.”
Teen daughters don’t deserve the negative stereotypes
Teen daughters often face unfair stereotypes and negative reputations, which can be problematic for several reasons.
Reinforces gender bias: Negative stereotypes about teen girls perpetuate harmful gender stereotypes and double standards.
Impacts self-esteem: A poor reputation can damage girls’ self-image and confidence during a crucial developmental period.
Limits opportunities: Unfair assumptions may restrict girls’ access to leadership roles, academic opportunities, or social activities.
Strains family relationships: Negative stereotypes can create tension between parents and daughters, undermining trust and communication.
Overlooks individuality: Broad generalizations ignore the diverse personalities, interests, and capabilities of teenage girls.
Discourages self-expression: Fear of judgment may lead girls to suppress their true selves or interests.
Affects mental health: Constant negative messaging can contribute to anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues.
Perpetuates harmful behavior: Some girls may feel pressure to conform to negative stereotypes if they’re constantly exposed to them.
The bottom line is that we must challenge and dismantle the harmful stereotypes surrounding teenage daughters. These generalizations not only limit individual potential but also perpetuate damaging societal norms. By recognizing and celebrating the diverse strengths, interests, and capabilities of young women, we create a more equitable and supportive environment for their growth.
Moving away from stereotypes allows us to see teenage girls as the complex, multifaceted individuals they are, fostering stronger family bonds, promoting mental well-being, and opening doors to a wider range of opportunities. Ultimately, breaking free from these restrictive narratives benefits not just the girls themselves, but society as a whole, as we tap into the full potential of the next generation of women leaders, thinkers, and innovators.
