I came across an issue today that left me with some confusion. My all but 14 year old niece through marriage is dealing with typical teenage feelings of inadequacy and I guess ultimately some bullying. She'd posted an Instagram picture about missing out on a crush you really like and hashtagged it as #ugly.
It kind of bugged me that she was feeling down on herself like this and so young. Though not blood, she's been in my life since she was like 5-6 and since she's taken a fancy to me as her uncle, she always been kind of like one of two things. Short of the baby sister I never had and almost like the daughter I could have, so I care a lot and want to see her progress in the world and not be treated like shit.
Granted she's unfortunately in that awkward period where she's transitioning from child into a real teen/women. Strangely awkward... Yes. Ugly... Not even close. And she's got some good genes to follow in... My wife, her other aunt, and her mom are all attractive. So how do you help them find self worth in themselves at this age. Especially when other girls are calling her straight up ugly or horse toothed. I joking told her to grab a bitch by her hair and smash her pretty face into something, but I guess that's not acceptable anymore. Haha. Being 20 years older, I reiterate the same cliche bullshit, that no kid believes, but in time we all learn is true. Explaining to them to have the confidence in themselves to be who they want to be, and being comfortable with who they are, will help them get past it isn't easy for them to get either.
Advice... Suggestions?