New report says Sept. 11 events had

major effects on young girls

A new report by the Girl Scout Research Institute indicates that 46 percent of San Fernando Valley girls were still fearful of their family’s safety several months after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11. More than half of the girls in the study had an overwhelming desire to continue to discuss the terrorist attacks and future threats with caring adults—primarily their own mother.

As a result of the attacks girls were reporting common symptoms of anxiety, showing up as nightmares, consistent worry, crying more than usual, depression and decreased enjoyment in daily activities.

After talking about the events with their mothers, girls reported being with friends and praying were the second and third activities that were the most helpful for them in dealing with the terrorist events.

Across the San Fernando Valley, parents have added more restrictions to their children’s daily lives to keep them safe, such as less airline travel, avoidance of public places, traveling in groups instead of alone and using beepers/cell phones to stay in constant family contact.

The positive impacts revealed in the months following the events of Sept. 11 included a majority of girls surveyed spending more time with their families, and valuing them more.

Girls also reported increased feelings of patriotism, a greater love for those close to them, more appreciation for their freedom, a re-evaluation of what’s important to them and increased community volunteerism.