The Problem
As body composition changes, there comes a decrease in self-confidence as one correlates to the other. And the lack of self-confidence/esteem will then add to poor physical health. This especially affects adolescent girls. According to Vera Feuer, MD, (n.d.), “Studies have long shown that self-esteem and confidence decrease for girls in middle school – but with girls going through puberty at younger ages, that may be happening earlier” (para. 4). Unfortunately, we live in a society where self-confidence is influenced by peers and media influences. Cribb & Haase (2015) states, “Adolescent girls with greater internalization of media ideals report greater appearance conversations with friends and more peer criticism when exposed to magazines with an emphasis on appearance” (para. 2).
Social Indicators & Data Collection
Cribb & Haase (2015) reference a study conducted with girls ages 11-16, which found that when exposed to magazine models who were considered thin or average, the self-image and self-esteem of the girls were negatively impacted (para. 2). Added to the visual images of magazines and television, there is also peer pressure or bullying. “Fifty percent of girls ages 10 to 13 experience bullying such as name calling and exclusion at a time when peer relationships become more central to girls’ lives” (Girls on the Run, 2022, “Critical Need” section).
My Program
Girls on the Run CVABR seeks to address three areas/needs that affect young girls between ages 8 and 18: self-esteem, physical development, and emotional development. Girlsontherun.org (2022) states, “Girls’ self-confidence begins to drop by age 9. Physical activity levels decline starting at age 10 and continue to decrease throughout adolescence” (“Critical Need” section). The rate at which the self-confidence of young girls has plummeted has created a need for environments where they can feel a sense of belonging with others who may be experiencing the same struggles, and Girls on the Run seeks to provide this. They can work with local schools, the local Department of Human Services, and organizations like the YMCA.
References
Cribb, & Haase, A. M. (2016). Girls feeling good at school: School gender environment, internalization and awareness of socio-cultural attitudes associations with self-esteem in adolescent girls. Journal of Adolescence (London, England.), 46(1), 107–114. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.adolescence.2015.10.019
Feuer, V. (n.d.). Low self-esteem is a crisis among young girls. Katz Institute for Women’s Health. https://www.northwell.edu/katz-institute-for-womens-health/articles/girls-self-esteem
Girls on the Run. (2022, August). https://www.girlsontherun.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/GOTR_Press-Kit-August-2022.pdf