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Growing Pains

(2007, R&b, by Mary J. Blige, Label: Geffen Records)

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 9, age appropriate for kids over 12; suggested age 12.

  • Is it any good?

    4.0

  • Common Sense says

    R&B diva with good messages about self-esteem.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 12 and Up

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    Positive messages of self-empowerment, respect, and confidence.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence:

    Not an issue.

  • Sex:

    Scattered sexual innuendo ("Babe if you love me like you say you do/kiss me, fix me up like I'm all that you got" and "I got what you want/what you need/is all in me").

  • Language:

    Only a few words that might be considered objectionable.

  • Consumerism:

    Several references to buying things and designer clothes.

  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Not an issue.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Growing Pains

Parents need to know that although Mary J. Blige's songs are deeply rooted in personal experience and she doesn't treat emotions or relationships lightly, the lyrics don't get too heavy or explicit. Older tweens and teens (and parents!) will enjoy the positive lyrics about rising above life's hurdles, and embracing individuality, self-esteem, and confidence -- and the fact that any sex talk is subtle and in good taste.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about how the media portrays women and what Blige is saying about these images. How does advertising contribute to low self-esteem? Is this an issue exclusive to women or are men and boys also affected? Does Blige examine these stereotypes or conform to them?
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Our Members Say

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Most Recent Reviews

  1. Adult Reviewer
    Philly30
    Lives in Pennsylvania
    I rate this title on for age 12 and give it 4.0

    Mary J's Best CD to Date

    Amazing---great cd---great messanging

    This review...

    Helped me decide | Had useful details | Read my mind
    Flag as inappropriate
  2. Teen Reviewer Age 14
    thedutchess
    I rate this title on for age 2 and give it 3.0

    Boring, bland, and appropriate music

    it's just not my style, but there are a few songs such as "Work that", and "Just Fine" that I can jam to. There is no issues at all with this Cd and it is appropriate for anyone 12 and over.

    This review...

    Helped me decide | Had useful details | Read my mind
    Flag as inappropriate

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