Developmental Differences in Menstrual Attitudes

Abstract

Methodological limitations, both conceptual and statistical, have impeded the investigation of developmental differences in menstrual attitudes. In this study, these methodological problems were addressed in an effort to clarify whether group differences associated with two developmental variables -age and menarcheal status -were related to differences in the attitudes toward menstruation held by early adolescent girls. Findings were that young adolescent girls had two fundamental attitudes toward menstruation: Girls held a set of beliefs about menstruation as something normal and acceptable (Affirmation) and another set of beliefs reflecting their worry about and dislike of menstruation (Worry). No significant developmental differences were found for girls' Affirmation of menstruation; there was a significant association of menarcheal timing and girls' Worry about menstruation, with early maturers more worried than their on-time peers. Implications of results for pubertal education are discussed.