Puberty Truths: Myths Parents Must Stop Believing Now

Myth 11: Puberty Is Easier for Confident Kids

Even the most outgoing or self-assured kids can struggle during puberty. Confidence in childhood doesn’t automatically translate to ease during adolescence. Body changes, peer pressure, identity shifts, and new emotional landscapes can shake even the most secure foundations. Assuming your confident child “has it handled” can lead to missed signs of distress or confusion. Puberty affects everyone differently—and sometimes the loudest laughs mask the deepest questions. Stay connected, keep checking in, and remember: being brave doesn't mean being unaffected. All kids, even the resilient ones, need support when everything starts to shift.

Myth 12: Boys Don’t Care About Body Image

Body image challenges aren't just for girls. Boys, too, face immense pressure—from bulking up to growing facial hair to hitting certain height milestones. Social media and pop culture often promote unrealistic male body ideals, which can lead to insecurity, over-exercising, or disordered eating. The problem? Boys are often told to “tough it out,” making it harder for them to express discomfort or seek help. Parents should watch for subtle signs of body image struggles—like obsessive gym habits or food restrictions—and create space for honest conversations. Because boys have body image issues, too. They just hide them better.