Body Weight - What's Normal? / Question
Published: December 10, 1999
Dear TeenHealthFX,
Why am I short?
Signed: Am I Short Forever?
Dear Am I Short Forever?,
TeenHealthFX does not know your age, sex or your family history to predict your height or answer why you are short. What can be said is that you are a teenager who is probably still growing. When going through puberty, your body is changing and growing taller. Males especially go through growth spurts for about 5 - 6 years and can grow up to 11 inches from the start of puberty until they reach their adult height (see question Pro-Player). Girls go through their growth spurts earlier then boy, often reaching their adult height in their early teen. Your final adult height is based on your parents' heights, your health status, and your family background.
TeenHealthFX is more concerned that you may feel inadequate or not as good as others because you are short. This is simply not the case. Regardless of your height, you are a good person and you can do anything you want if you give yourself the opportunity. It is important to be happy with yourself and your body image. If you have any concerns about your body, discuss them with your doctor.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
Less than 33% of teens with depression get help, yet 80% of teens with depression can be successfully treated if they seek help from a doctor or therapist.
