ADOLESCENT GIRLS AND THEIR MOTHERS - REALIGNING THE RELATIONSHIP

Adolescence is a period during which family relationships are realigne d. In particular, adolescent girls need to adjust to pubertal developm ent, achieve adaptive individuation from their families, and at the sa me time attain their parents' acceptance of their emerging independenc e. Additional challenges include choices about sexual activity and ill egal drug use. These changes may exert special pressure on the relatio nship between adolescent girls and their mothers. In a similar fashion , mothers confront emotional pressures as they attempt to serve as con fidantes and guides for their daughters' pubertal changes, fulfill the ir own needs, and cope with emotions that may be awakened by the adole scent's development. The bond between adolescent girls and their mothe rs is, therefore, challenged during this period. This paper focuses on a case in which the resolution of these issues caused the adolescent to become pregnant impulsively and, after an abortion, to harbor a wis h to become pregnant again. The developmental technique of previewing may help reestablish harmony between a mother and her teenage daughter in these circumstances.