The Science of Self-Worth: Why It Matters for Girls

We want to talk about self-worth. Not the fuzzy transient kind that comes from getting full marks or being cast as the lead in the school play (though those are obviously great!). We mean the quieter, more enduring kind – the belief that you’re enough, just as you are.

At Fearless Girls Club, this is something we care deeply about. Because while it’s brilliant to see girls achieving, performing and joining in, we’re more interested in how they feel about themselves underneath all that. Self-worth is what helps them weather the ups and downs, not just shine when things are going well.

Here’s What The Research Tells Us

A strong sense of self-worth in childhood is linked to better mental health, stronger relationships and more resilience later on. That’s huge! One long-term study even found links between early self-worth and future academic success – not because children worked harder, but because they believed they were capable and didn’t give up as easily when things got tough. 

Self-worth also helps protect against anxiety and depression. When a girl feels secure in who she is, she’s less likely to internalise failure or feel defined by what others think of her. In short, it’s not just about confidence – it’s about emotional resilience, identity and feeling anchored in a world that’s constantly shifting.

So, essentially what we’re saying is that girls who believe in their own value – regardless of achievements – are better equipped to handle knockbacks, make healthy choices and navigate life with a clearer head.

The challenge? Self-worth can start to dip during the tween years (roughly 8–11). It’s an age where comparison kicks in – what they wear, how they look, how good they are at sport or maths, whether they’re ‘in’ or ‘out’ of a group. Their worlds are getting bigger, but also a bit more complicated.

So How Can Parents Help?

It starts with how we talk to them and how we listen. Giving girls space to be heard, to mess up and to figure things out without judgement is huge. So is showing them that their worth isn’t something they have to earn. They don’t need to be perfect, or popular or top of the class. They just need to be themselves – and to know that’s enough.

That’s why we created Fearless Girls Club. A space where girls can be bold, silly, thoughtful and entirely their own person. Somewhere to build confidence and friendships without the pressure to perform or achieve – just turn up and be themselves.

We’re not aiming for perfection, we’re aiming for real – and all the grit and mess that comes with it. Because when girls feel stable in who they are, everything else starts to fall into place.

Want to explore more articles like this? We’ve got plenty of ideas, resources and guides on how to start the conversation at home in our blog library.