Worried Mother: Teenage daughter spending too much on clothes and makeup

Dear Agony Aunt,

I am a mother of a teenage daughter who is currently studying in secondary school. Lately, I have been noticing that she is spending a significant amount of her time and money on clothes and makeup.

This behavior is quite concerning to me as I was not like this when I was her age. I am worried that she might be spending excessively and that this behavior is not normal for girls her age. I would appreciate your advice on how to handle this situation.

Sincerely,
Worried Mother

Dear Concerned Mother,

Thank you for reaching out to me with your concerns about your daughter’s behavior. It is quite common for teenage girls to show an interest in clothes and makeup as they navigate through their adolescent years. This is often a time when they are exploring their identity and experimenting with different styles.

However, it is important to keep an eye on excessive spending and to have open and honest conversations with your daughter about responsible budgeting and the value of money. It might also be helpful to understand the underlying reasons for her increased interest in clothes and makeup. Is she trying to fit in with her peers, or is there something else driving this behavior?

I would recommend approaching the situation with empathy and understanding, while also setting clear boundaries and expectations. Encouraging her to find a balance between self-expression and responsible spending is key.

If you feel that her behavior is impacting her overall well-being or if you are still concerned, it might be beneficial to seek the guidance of a professional counselor or therapist who can provide further support.

Remember that every teenager is different, and it’s important to approach these situations with patience and understanding.

Best wishes,
Agony Aunt