taller than I want

So I am kinda new at this, but its not my first time. Here is my question I grow inside and my plants are always so tall whether male or female. I look at other peoples starting plant and they are short and bushy. Once my plants got about three months old they look normal but still kinda of skrawny (leaf wise). My stems just shot up really fast with not alot of leaf action. I have topped them twice so far. This is the farthest I have gotten because my ex-roommate stripped my batch last year. just so you all know I have read the grow guide and just want personal hints and such. Thanks all!

lets see here,
first, go re-read the grow guide specifically on lights and lighting setups.

secondly, knowing your immediate light setup now would be helpful.

if using CFLs, keep them AS CLOSE AS POSSIBLE without burning leaves.

you should have a fan and/or adequate ventilation.

if your using HID lights then you need to read. i think you need them at least 1.5ft away and NOT closer depending on the watts. more watts more heat more distance.

the problem is controlling the temp of the lamps as they get bigger so it does not affect your grow, hence the need for adequate ventilation.

keeping your light close will prevent stretching. also, have enough wattage for the size of your area. again that info is around here.

try 101 already asked questions. it might be there.

hope this helps, and if not please provide more details on your setup.

I am using CFLs and have them about 4 inches from the top leaves and have one set up at the bottom so the bottom leaves will also receive light. The temperature always stays between 80 to 90 degrees and i keep the door opened about 4 inches so the air is circulated. I only have four plants two are about two weeks old and the others are three months. I dont think I am doing anything out of the ordinary, but maybe I need too? I dont have the greatest fertilizer though just standard miracle grow.