Increased numbers of young girls are feeling less safe due to the prevalence of sexism and misogyny, according to a recent survey conducted by Girlguiding. The survey revealed alarming statistics, showing that 59% of 13-21-year-olds have either witnessed or personally experienced sexual harassment. Additionally, 47% of 11-21-year-olds now feel less safe as a result of sexism and misogyny, a stark increase from 17% a decade ago.
Even more concerning is the fact that 77% of girls and young women aged 7-21 have encountered online harm within the last year. More than one in five girls aged between seven and ten have been exposed to inappropriate images online, indicating a worrying trend. Negative comments about appearance have affected over half of girls aged 7-21, with two in three aged 11-21 expressing a desire to lose weight.
The pressures faced by girls today are evidently intensifying, with a significant impact on their confidence and sense of safety. The survey also highlighted that only one in four girls feel very confident in their lives or about their future. These findings demonstrate the growing challenges girls encounter as they navigate sexism, body image issues, and online safety concerns.
Girls’ rights campaigners and organisations have expressed grave concerns over the survey results, describing the situation as a “national emergency.” According to Jane Kenyon, the founder of Girls Out Loud, the current landscape is harrowing, with girls as young as seven experiencing a crisis of confidence due to sexism and the toxic online environment. Kenyon emphasised the urgent need for action to address these issues before irreparable damage occurs.
Despite the alarming statistics, Girlguiding noted that girls still retain a sense of hope and curiosity for the future. The organisation’s survey serves as a stark reminder of the challenges girls face in an increasingly complex and demanding world. It is crucial for society as a whole to recognise and address the underlying causes of these issues to ensure that young girls have the support and safety they deserve to thrive.
In response to the survey findings, it is evident that immediate action is required to protect and empower young girls against the harmful effects of sexism, misogyny, and online harm. It is a collective responsibility to create a safe and nurturing environment where girls can grow and flourish without being held back by societal pressures and discrimination. The well-being and future of young girls are at stake, underscoring the importance of proactive measures to address these pressing challenges.