Are we unintentionally teaching girls to approach life with apprehension? If life is fundamentally about taking calculated risks, are we setting them up for failure by instilling fear rather than courage? Research indicates that, all too often, girls are encouraged to play it safe rather than confront their fears head-on. A study published in The Journal of Applied Developmental Psychology found that parents were significantly more likely to caution their daughters against climbing a fire-pole than they were their sons. Moreover, while parents tended to assist their girls, they often encouraged their boys to figure it out independently. The findings suggest that “parents communicate to young children in ways that may promote greater risk-taking by boys than girls.”
Instilling doubt in young girls can lead to a lifelong pattern that suggests women should be wary of challenges that men tackle boldly. In her New York Times article, “Why Do We Teach Girls That It’s Cute to Be Scared?”, author Julia Miles, a former firefighter, recalls being asked if she was afraid in her male-dominated field. I faced similar questions when I shared my experiences as a journalist covering high-stakes events. Despite explaining how first responders are closer to danger than reporters, many women would respond, “Oh, I could never do that.” This raises a critical question: what other opportunities are we discouraging girls from pursuing?
Reflecting on my time as a Girl Scout, I found more excitement attending my brother’s Boy Scouts meetings. The boys learned skills like how to handle firearms and use knives, while we girls earned badges for sewing and cooking. While these skills are undoubtedly valuable, the lessons I received led me to feel apprehensive about more adventurous abilities. As these girls mature into women, the mindset of playing it safe can hinder their willingness to embrace opportunities with uncertain outcomes.
Success, whether personal or professional, often involves a degree of risk. Prominent women like entrepreneur Lisa Tran emphasize the importance of taking chances. “You only grow when you step outside your comfort zone,” she says. “That’s the essence of growth.” Rather than telling girls to be careful, we should encourage them to face their fears and thrive despite them. If girls are nurtured to make bold choices as children, they will be more likely to do so as adults.
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In summary, let’s shift our approach from cautioning girls to be careful to empowering them to take risks. By fostering a mindset of courage from a young age, we can help pave the way for their future success.