Helping Girls Thrive in Uncertain Times
The Research
From the onset of COVID-19, educators, school administrators, youth-serving organizations, and caregivers have shared anecdotal evidence of the ramifications their youth are experiencing as a result of prolonged isolation during the pandemic.
As a leader in nationwide programming, large-scale research, and professional development focused on girls, ROX administered a wide-reaching survey to assess the well-being of girls across the country since the national stay-at-home orders began.
After hearing from 1,273 girls nationwide, we can offer a clearer picture of the key issues girls are facing during this time. The in-depth survey, conducted in May 2020, captures the insights of 5th through 12th grade girls, and our research brief outlines their perceptions and experiences around their relationships, executive functioning, academics and stress.
Key Findings
Girls are experiencing newfound fear about their futures since the onset of COVID-19. Over half (52%) of girls are thinking differently about their futures since the start of the pandemic, with nearly 60% reporting fear or uncertainty regarding what the future will bring.
Loneliness and isolation are negatively impacting teen girls at alarmingly high rates. Most girls (80%) are more lonely and isolated since the onset of COVID-19, and a full one-third are much more lonely/isolated.
The majority of girls found the upheaval associated with COVID-19 detrimental to their ability to organize, concentrate and complete their school work. Most (59%) reported difficulty with academic executive functioning skills, such as organization and concentration, and more than half struggled to keep up with their school work.
COVID-19 markedly amplified the stress levels of teen girls. Nearly half of high school girls report experiencing higher stress levels than before the pandemic with 42% reporting that their life is harder than it was before.
“I think about if we are even going to make it out of this situation.”
“When am I going to have my life back to normal, or is this the new normal?”
Resources & Recommendations
Free Webinar
Catch this recorded webinar for an overview of relevant data for parents and educators to consider as they plan for the upcoming academic year — specifically, how to support the girls that you care about as they continue to navigate a world that is impacted by COVID-19.
Results of the National COVID-19 Survey with 1,000+ Girls, presented by Dr. Lisa Hinkelman
Listen & Learn
Audio Clips from “Help! I’m Stuck at Home! Helping Girls Thrive During Uncertain Times”
Presented by Dr. Lisa Hinkelman
Take Action
The ROX Program for Girls is an evidence-based curriculum that is delivered in schools and communities across the country. The ROX Program focuses on the health, safety, education and empowerment of girls during their critical 5th-12th grade years and is implemented by a trusted member of your school community. Girls engage with a consistent cohort of peers and participate in a 20-lesson program experience during the school day.
