The former teacher who has released a book, "What's Happening to Our Girls", said children today were facing pressures which their parents struggled to understand.

Marketing, technology, the internet and pornography were all having an impact, she said.

"We are growing a generation of anxious, immature kids with a much more minimal life experience than previous generations.

"Because kids are growing up in homes filled with brand name clothes, watching DVDs ... they're not getting outside and experiencing life and connecting with the community."

But the solutions can be quite simple.

Ms Hamilton said family meals could open up the lines of communication and friendships across generations were beneficial.

Ms Hamilton spoke to a group of parents at a seminar at Ballarat Christian College last week.

For more information on the book visit www.maggiehamilton.org.