Visitors include fleas, mites, ticks, jiggers, bedbugs, scabies, and lice. They are all parasites, as they all suck blood. They do this through tubes which help keep the blood free flowing. One tube injects saliva into the host's skin. The saliva contains a substance to prevent blood clotting. This allows the other tube to suck up blood. The anti clotting factor causes itching, which announces the presence of little visitors in the home.

The main trend revealed by studies of popular attitudes is although some women in western societies have an overall negative image of menopause, it is not as widespread as was previously thought. Today, the vast majority of women at mid life do not express regret at reaching menopause, do not report more symptoms or poorer health status, and do not increase their use of medical services.

The double standard, one code of sexual behavior for boys and the opposite for girls, has been pilloried, and most people believe that it no longer exists. Yet studies show that, for teen boys, there is still subtle pressure from parents to "prove their manhood" by becoming sexually active with girls.

"I can't have babies," the girl complained into camera.

Deirdre, the interviewer, blinked in amazement. "You are on this program because you have AIDS."

"I know," the girl spoke petulantly. "What really ticks me off is my tubes are infected as well. Now I can't have babies."

"Why are you wearing that awful old jacket?" Abbie asked. Her daughter, Franny, was embarrassed. "You know. It covers my -- you know."

Abbie did know. Only too well. Her daughter's breasts were over growing, just as hers did when she was 13. Franny raged. "Why won't they stop growing? It's gross. I hate them."

"Mothers linked to daughters' eating disorders." In late 1991, these headlines were blazoned in newspapers and magazines. They came from the findings of a study into female attitudes towards food and beauty.

In America, there exists a false concept of the female form which is demonstrated in thousands of subtle ways. One not so subtle way is the popular Barbie doll, and others of her ilk. Assuming a bust measurement of 36 inches, Barbie's proportions work out at a 36 inch bust, an 18 inch waist, and 33 inch hips.