Going beyond superficial media stereotypes, this volume seeks to present a balanced view of teenage girls. It reviews and assesses research on girls from a variety of racial, ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds, searching for commonalities and differences. The contributing authors explore topics at the heart of adolescence, including gender-role prescriptions, body-image concerns, relationships with family and peers, sexual decision-making, experiences at school and in the community, and health and safety concerns. A concluding chapter suggests ways of improving the support that can be given to adolescent girls on their developmental journey.