Examining the effects of a self-esteem program on African American girls

The purpose of this study was to examine the self-concept of African American girls, ages 10-15 and to implement the Zola Circle program in an attempt to enhance their self-esteem. Two groups of girls attended the Zola Circle workshops. Both groups attended the workshops for five weeks. The girls were given the Coopersmith Self-esteem Inventory Test before attending the workshop and at the conclusion of the workshop. A follow-up test was given to group one five weeks after the completion of the workshop. The Analysis of Variance test (ANOVA) was computed to assess pretest differences between the two groups participating. The results of the analysis showed no significant differences between the two groups. The study was successful in producing supportive and relevant data regarding the measurement of attitudes toward the self in social, academic, family and personal areas.