In response to an article in The Age, Julie Gale writes in a letter to the editor published Sep 18 09:
'No, all is not well. Christine Gordon (Comment & Debate, 17/9) shooting a messenger such as social commentator Melinda Tankard Reist will not help "young women find their own way".
There is little doubt among child development professionals that all is not well in girl world. Yes, many kids are doing well, but many others are struggling.
Research links sexualisation with increased anxiety, depression, eating disorders, early sexual contact and increased sexually transmitted infections.
The rate of self-harm in young females has increased by more than 50 per cent in the past decade. John Marsden may write "wonderful books for young people" but that does not mean he is right when it comes to the sexualisation issue.
Women should support each other in helping our struggling girls (and boys) navigate their way through the sexualised culture we have imposed on them.