The Girl-Crisis Movement: Evaluating the Foundation

Abstract

Psychologists played a major role behind the widely publicized and popular idea of a crisis among girls. In this paper, several topics basic to the girl-crisis movement are examined. Suggested by the works of psychologists Carol Gilligan and Mary Pipher, the topics are voice, self-esteem, and psychology's role in harming girls. Expected sex differences in voice and self-esteem were not found. The girl-crisis notion that contemporary psychology has colluded in harming girls is at odds with the arc of the profession. The wide divergence between the basic claims of the girl-crisis movement and these findings are discussed. Further critique is recommended.

The influence of peer groups in organized sport on female adolescents' identity development

“…According to Farady (2010), the "girl-crisis" movement has not been adequately discussed or supported in peer-reviewed literature. In his critique, he claims there are few psychologists who express support for the girl-crisis movement, but suggests that many psychologists tacitly support the movement.…”

“…In addition, Farady (2010) expresses doubt concerning the relevance of this movement for contemporary female adolescents. Moreover, he suggests that girls are sufficiently represented in current literature (Farady, 2010).…”

“…The major critique of Pipher's work involves her concept of the loss of "voice" in female adolescents. "Voice" in this context refers to adolescents' willingness to be assertive and express themselves (Farady, 2010). Considered a second-wave women's movement, the girl-crisis is substantially influenced by this notion of loss of "voice."…”

“…Considered a second-wave women's movement, the girl-crisis is substantially influenced by this notion of loss of "voice." Since few quantitative studies have assessed loss of "voice" in female adolescents, Farady (2010) claims that our current understanding of the girl-crisis is not valid. Furthering this argument, Farady (2010) references a study by Harter, Waters and Whitesell (1997) in which they quantitatively assessed a loss of "voice" in female and male adolescents.…”

“…Though Farady (2010) makes an excellent point in that we must provide research-driven support for the experiential work of Pipher, it is suggested that qualitative studies are the most appropriate methods for creating empirical data in this area. The aforementioned quantitative study by Harter et al (1997) is incomplete without a subjective and detailed account of the personal experiences of the individuals involved in this study.…”