The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants Theme of Avoidance

Shh… Maybe if you don't deal with the problem it will go away. Oh wait, that didn't work? Bummer. Maybe you should take a cue from the girls in The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, because these girls face all kinds of situations that are uncomfortable, and sometimes even downright painful. Their first instincts are to bury their problems, but guess what? This only makes things worse. The girls use the Pants to face the music, turning avoidance into acceptance so they can move on.

So put on your big kid pants, and look your problems in the eye. We—and the girls in the Sisterhood—assure you it's worth it. 

Questions About Avoidance

  1. How does Bridget avoid dealing with the death of her mother?
  2. Tibby is the queen of avoidance. What does she avoid most, and why?
  3. Lena is a beautiful young woman; why does she avoid boys?

Chew on This

Try on an opinion or two, start a debate, or play the devil’s advocate.

While all of the girls avoid their conflicts, Carmen's avoidance affects her personality the most, turning her into a bitter and spiteful person.

All of the girls avoid their pain out of fear.