Case Taking Difficulties of Adolescent Girls
By Dr. Sunitha Devi Vannemreddy, M.D (Hom)
For consultations, contact: drsunithavannemreddy@gmail.com
Adolescence is a transitional phase between childhood and young adulthood, typically occurring between the ages of 13 and 19. This period is marked by significant physical, emotional, and behavioral changes, especially in girls. Along with bodily transformations such as breast development, pubic hair growth, and the onset of menstruation, adolescent girls experience shifts in their psychological and social outlook, leading to confusion and self-exploration.
Challenges Faced by Adolescent Girls
In Indian culture, puberty often brings with it a series of restrictions within the household. While orthodox principles have diminished over time, certain societal expectations and limitations persist, which young girls struggle to comprehend. Adolescents begin to form their own perspectives, compare themselves with peers, and develop a stronger sense of independence. They become more secretive, form deep friendships, and start making their own decisions, sometimes without fully understanding the consequences.
A young girl’s focus shifts towards her appearance, leading her to experiment with fashion, accessories, and social interactions. Hormonal changes can make her more resistant to parental authority, more prone to emotional outbursts, and less communicative within the family. She may seek answers from friends rather than parents, further widening the communication gap.
On the other hand, parents continue to perceive their children as immature and attempt to assert control over their choices. Many parents fail to recognize their daughter’s identity crisis, leading to frequent conflicts. Overprotectiveness can stifle a girl’s personal growth, while excessive criticism can push her into isolation or rebellion.
Case Study: Understanding the Struggles of Adolescent Case Taking
One day, a father consulted me about his 17-year-old daughter’s health issues. She was experiencing irregular menstrual cycles and weight gain. When I requested to meet his daughter, she visited my clinic the next day with her mother.
As I inquired about her health, her mother took over the conversation, listing numerous complaints about her daughter—irregular menses, acne, dandruff, hair loss, mood swings, and introversion. She barely allowed the girl to speak for herself. She insisted that her daughter’s poor eating habits were the cause of her issues and dismissed the need for individual consultation.
Observing the girl’s demeanor, I noticed her reluctance to engage. She remained silent, looking down, and displayed signs of detachment and mild defiance towards her mother. When I asked to speak to the girl alone, her mother refused, asserting that there were no secrets between them.
I proceeded with the consultation in her mother’s presence and recommended an ultrasound and thyroid profile test. When they returned with the reports, the tests indicated polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). I explained the condition and emphasized the need for lifestyle changes, homeopathic treatment, and parental understanding.
To gain deeper insight, I requested a one-on-one session with the girl. After much persuasion, her father agreed. When she visited alone, I initiated a casual conversation to ease her discomfort. As she opened up, she revealed her aspirations to become a software engineer but felt constrained by her mother’s overprotectiveness. She expressed frustration over her mother monitoring her conversations and decisions. Although she rarely showed anger, when overwhelmed, she would lash out, leading to emotional blackmail from her mother.
I prescribed Staphysagria 1M, advising her to return in a month. Additionally, I counseled her father and mother on the importance of supporting their daughter rather than controlling her. Over the next six to eight months, her symptoms fluctuated, but with continuous treatment and counseling, she gradually stabilized.
Conclusion: The Role of Parents and Physicians in Adolescent Care
The emotional turmoil of adolescence can lead to impulsive decisions if not properly guided. Parents must provide moral, emotional, and psychological support instead of enforcing rigid control. Understanding, open communication, and allowing adolescents to make informed choices can help them transition into adulthood with confidence.
For homeopathic practitioners, patience and counseling are crucial while managing adolescent cases. Addressing both physical and emotional aspects ensures holistic healing and a smoother journey through adolescence.
For consultations and further guidance, contact Dr. Sunitha Devi Vannemreddy at drsunithavannemreddy@gmail.com.
