When people say that children grow up faster today, they are confusing appearance with reality. Children may be avid consumers of adult culture. They may adopt adult mannerisms and styles. They certainly get to grips with new technology far more easily than grown-ups. But when it comes to everyday freedoms--like walking to school alone, or meeting…

Women engaging in outdoor activities tend to be more supportive of each other and more willing to express their feelings and apprehensions about adventurous settings than are men. It is important for women to have strong female leaders as role models. Instructors should be aware that women's learning styles and learning curves differ from men's.…

The practice of responding to women's fears by "fixing" the situation denies them their feelings and eclipses their knowledge of self. Intuition is a valid way of knowing, and outdoor leaders need to honor it in themselves and others, and listen to and encourage women who voice their feelings. (TD)