Defining the Girls Circle Program: Theory, Goals and Activities

• In Event: The Girls Circle: A Randomized Evaluation of a Structured Support Group Program for Girls

Abstract

Girls Circle is a gender-specific support group that promotes resiliency and healthy development of pre-teen and adolescent girls regardless of risk. Based on Relational-Cultural theory, it applies strengths-based approaches, Motivational Interviewing, and cognitive-behavioral, experiential skill building activities. This integrated program strengthens girls’ relationships and self-worth, and counters harmful gender norms and attitudes which have contributed to gender-based harassment, sexual abuse and assault, and their subsequent impact on girls’ physical, mental and behavioral health. Girls Circle supports respectful peer-to-peer and adult-peer connections, use of voice, healthy decision making, and leadership skills as girls pursue education and meaningful participation in their communities. Facilitator training and manual-guided curricula and consultation assist facilitators in programs across all systems of care and all youth sectors globally. The program theory, goals, structural elements, activities and prior research are discussed.

Authors

• Giovanna Taormina, One Circle Foundation

• Stephen Gies, Development Services Group, Inc.

• Marcia Cohen, Development Services Group, Inc.

• Amanda Bobnis, Development Services Group, Inc.