"Scouting as a Strategy in Support of Mental Health Development Through the Formation of Sense of Self-Efficacy "

Roman Ryszard Szałachowski, Weronika Własak , Wioletta Tuszyńska-Bogucka .   2024

Abstract

Background: This research project examining the moderating role of the Scout Movement in supporting mental health through the shaping of personal competence is based on Bandura’s conception of social development (social cognitive theory) in terms of generating a sense of general self-efficacy. Methods: This research examined the moderating value of Scouting with regard to the connection between self-esteem and a sense of efficacy and styles of coping with stress in a group of 683 volunteers. Results: The results suggest that Scouting is a moderator of the relationship between the intensity of an emotion-focused stress coping style and a sense of self-efficacy—being a Scout intensifies the blocking effect of self-esteem on emotions in stressful situations, which can positively influence emotion regulation. Conclusions: The features described suggest the need to research Scouting as a non-formal education strategy to support the development of young people’s mental health in different theoretical and methodological contexts. This work provides conclusions regarding understanding the role of Scouting as a moderator in coping with stress and, consequently, ensuring good mental health. It detailed the knowledge pertaining to specific mechanisms thanks to which Scouting can influence the development of emotional regulation and adaptive response to stressful situations.

Relevance to Scouting

This research is relevant because it offers evidence that participation in structured, non-formal educational environments can play a meaningful role in supporting young people’s mental health. The findings highlight how engagement in such programs can strengthen emotional regulation, enhance self-efficacy, and promote more adaptive responses to stress by shaping the way self-esteem interacts with coping styles. By identifying specific mechanisms—such as the reduced impact of emotion-focused coping in stressful situations—the study contributes to a deeper understanding of how youth development initiatives can support resilience and psychological well-being. These insights can inform program design, training, and evaluation aimed at fostering personal competence and healthy coping skills in young people across diverse cultural and educational contexts.