An independent study examining the effects that being a Scout as a youth has on men’s later life was funded by the John Templeton Foundation and conducted by Baylor University. The first report from this study, released by Baylor University during the 2012 National Annual Meeting, focuses on the difference earning the Eagle Scout Award makes in the lives of men. This report provides us with empirical evidence that, compared to men who were never Scouts, Eagle Scouts demonstrate:
- Greater lifelong connections to family, friends, and neighbors;
- A higher sense of responsibility to give back through leadership, service, volunteering, and donating;
- Greater connections to and concern for their community;
- More self-discipline to plan ahead and set and achieve goals;
- Higher self-expectations;
- A greater appreciation of and concern for the environment; and
- Increased respect for religion and religious diversity.
This study is available in PDF format: Eagle Scouts – Merit Beyond the Badge
