The impact of the 'Girls on the Move' Leadership Programme on young female leaders' self-esteem

Citation

Taylor J (2014) The impact of the 'Girls on the Move' Leadership Programme on young female leaders' self-esteem. Leisure Studies, 33 (1), pp. 62-74. https://doi.org/10.1080/02614367.2012.727459

Abstract
Using findings obtained from an evaluation of the 'Girls on the Move' Leadership Programme in Scotland, this paper assesses the impact physical activity leadership courses and leading physical activities had on young women’s global self-esteem. While research has shown that engagement in youth development activities can contribute to an individual’s self-esteem, less is known about the impact of youth leadership on young people’s self-esteem. Based on pre-course and six-month follow-up surveys and using the Rosenberg self-esteem scale, it was found that increases in global self-esteem scores were highest in those that maintained an involvement in leading activities. The self-esteem of those attending training but not taking on leadership responsibilities remained largely unchanged. The findings indicate that youth leadership development has the power to make important contributions to the development of young people and youth development professionals should seek to provide meaningful leadership experiences for young people.

Keywords
youth development; young women; leadership; self-esteem; physical activity

Journal
Leisure Studies: Volume 33, Issue 1