An investigation into the lived experiences of Girl Guiding in Scotland with a focus on mental health.

Abstract

“I promise that I will do my best, to be true to myself and develop my beliefs, to serve the Queen and my community, to help other people and to keep the (Brownie) Guide Law.” This dissertation delves into Girl Guiding Scotland, examining its core aims in relation to how it is or is not benefiting mental health. With ever-growing academic literature on mental health, this dissertation aims to explain the ways Girl Guiding Scotland may be influencing female mental health in adulthood. To gather valuable data, 200 participants have been gathered to project an overall opinion from Girl Guiding members in Scotland. Throughout this dissertation, the skills Girl Guiding teaches are examined, and participants are asked to reflect on their own personal experiences. Through the use of online surveys, participants were gathered from all over Scotland and were asked questions which would help to demonstrate the influence Girl Guiding Scotland has on young girls.