New research by EE and psychologist Dr Sheila Redfern finds that joining a football network helps young women gain confidence and form supportive communities, offering protection from social media pressures.
The study found that 93% of girls aged between 13-18 who play or watch football say the sport gives them more confidence (93%) and a feeling of belonging (69%) and positivity (57%).
More than ever before, social media presents a challenging landscape for teen girls with associated problems including the pressure to maintain a curated online image, the possibility of cyberbullying, and decreased self-esteem.
Research by EE and psychologist Dr Sheila Redfern PhD found that joining a football network—through a team, casual games, or online communities—greatly lessens social media’s negative effects on teenage girls’ self-esteem and confidence.
Among girls who do not watch or play football, 44% report that social media has affected their confidence, and 27% indicate that it has decreased their self-esteem.
Girls who are involved in football are also more likely to develop strong emotional resilience (66%) than their counterparts (49%), with nearly three quarters (72%) well equipped to cope with negative online experiences. Three fifths (61%) of girls who watch or play football also say they are comfortable confiding in friends and family over social media pressure.
The study surveyed teenage girls aged 13-18, comparing those involved in football and the other not participating. All were asked the same questions exploring their relationship with social media, their self-perception, and their emotional resilience.
The data reveals a clear pattern: girls involved in football communities demonstrate stronger emotional resilience, more positive peer relationships, and a greater sense of self-worth.
Dr Sheila Redfern PhD, who co-designed the research methodology, commented:
“Adolescence is a time of significant developmental change; including neurological, psychological, physical and social changes that shape long-term wellbeing. In recent years, we have seen an increased spike in the mental and emotional health problems of adolescent girls which has been exacerbated due to increased exposure to the online world.
The research forms part of EE’s Everyone Needs a Squad campaign, which sees players from across the Home Nations and grassroots footballers feature in content showing how confidence and community can be built through football.
As part of this, EE has launched a bespoke online platform called EE Squad, which helps teenage girls explore, build and grow their community around football, particularly in an online world where girls are often exposed to negativity. The platform offers routes into local football opportunities, confidence-building content via EE LearnSmart, and personal stories from Home Nations players sharing how football has shaped their confidence, resilience, and sense of belonging – on and off the pitch.
Additionally, the campaign sees the introduction of EE Squad Socials. Taking place at locations across the UK, the initiative provides a vibrant space for teen girls and their families to play, connect and celebrate their self-expression through football. The events will provide an offline environment where they can get involved in a host of creative and football related activities, watch the games live and grow their football network.
The event takes place: Cardiff, 13th July
For more information on EE Squad Socials and to secure your free ticket to the event visit eelearnsmart.co.uk/ee-squad.
