It’s amazing what you can learn when you listen to girls.
Since its founding in 2000, the Girl Scout Research Institute has become an internationally recognized center
for research and public policy information on the development and well-being of girls. Not just Girl Scouts, but
all girls.
In addition to research staff, the GSRI draws on experts in child development, education, business,
government, and the not-for-profit sector. We provide the youth development field with definitive research
reviews that consolidate existing studies. And, by most measures, we are now the leading source of original
research on the issues that girls face and the social trends that affect their lives. Visit
www.girlscouts.org/research.
According to Feeling Safe: What Girls Say, a 2003 Girl Scout Research Institute study, girls are looking for groups
that allow connection and a sense of close friendship. They want volunteers who are teen savvy and can help
them with issues they face, such as bullying, peer pressure, dating, athletic and academic performance, and
more. Some of these issues may be considered “sensitive” by parents, and they may have opinions or input
about how, and whether, Girl Scouts should cover these topics should be covered with their daughters.
Girl Scouts welcomes and serves girls and families from a wide spectrum of faiths and cultures. When girls wish
to participate in discussions or activities that could be considered sensitive—even for some—put the topic on
hold until you have spoken with parents and received guidance from your council.
When Girl Scout activities involve sensitive issues, your role is that of a caring adult who can help girls acquire
skills and knowledge in a supportive atmosphere, not someone who advocates a particular position.
You should know, GSUSA and GSWPA do not take a position or develop materials on issues relating to human
sexuality, birth control, or abortion. We feel our role is to help girls develop self-confidence and good decisionmaking skills that will help them make wise choices in all areas of their lives. We believe parents and guardians,
along with schools and faith communities, are the primary sources of information on these topics.
Parents/guardians make all decisions regarding their girl’s participation in Girl Scout program that may be of a
sensitive nature. As a volunteer leader, you must get written parental permission for any locally planned
program offering that could be considered sensitive. Included on the permission form should be the topic of
the activity, any specific content that might create controversy, and any action steps the girls will take when
the activity is complete. Be sure to have a form for each girl, and keep the forms on hand in case a problem
arises. For activities not sponsored by Girl Scouts, find out in advance (from organizers or other volunteers
who may be familiar with the content) what will be presented, and follow your council’s guidelines for
obtaining written permission.
Report concerns: There may be times when you worry about the health and well-being of girls in your group.
Alcohol, drugs, sex, bullying, abuse, depression, and eating disorders are some of the issues girls may encounter.
You are on the frontlines of girls’ lives, and you are in a unique position to identify a situation in which a girl may
need help. If you believe a girl is at risk of hurting herself or others, your role is to promptly bring that
information to her parent/guardian or the council so she can get the expert assistance she needs. Your concern
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