Citation

Solomon BJ, Garibaldi M. J. Risk Issues 2013; 17(2): 11-22.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2013, National Dropout Prevention Center, Clemson University)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

There is an overwhelming disconnect between young adolescent girls and adults, in relationship to perceptions of middle schoolgirl risk taking. This mixed-methods study investigates the differences between adult practitioners and middle school girls' perceptions of risk taking, understanding of consequences, and needs among middle school girls. Understanding such cohort differences is critical to providing adult practitioners with a blueprint for best supporting middle school girls. Four-hundred and nine middle school girls, and 226 adult practitioners, who worked with middle school girls in a variety of contexts, anonymously responded to five open-ended questions relating to their risk taking, understanding of consequences, and needs. The results highlight an overwhelming disconnect between the two cohorts. Most significantly, the findings reveal the risks and needs that are salient to middle schoolgirls and underscoring the misinterpretation of their risk taking and needs among adult practitioners. Implications for school practitioners are discussed including strategies for effectively connecting with middle school girls.

Language: en