Adult Leaders

Youth Protection

The Boy Scouts of America has adopted a number of policies aimed at eliminating opportunities for abuse within the Scouting program. These policies focus on leadership selection and on placing barriers to abuse within the program.

Two-deep Leadership

Two registered Adult Leaders or one registered Leader and a Parent of a participant, one of whom must be 21 years of age or older, are required at all Troop Meetings, outings and activities. The two Leaders may not be married to each other.

No One-On-One Contact

One-on-one contact between adults and youth members is not permitted. In situations that require personal conferences, such as a Scoutmaster's Conference, the meeting is to be conducted in view of other adults and youths.

Respect of Privacy

Adult Leaders must respect the privacy of youth members in situations such as changing clothes and taking showers at camp, and intrude only to the extent that health and safety require. Adults must protect their own privacy in similar situations.

Separate Accommodations

When camping, no youth is permitted to sleep in the tent of an adult other than his own parent or guardian. It is strongly encouraged to have separate shower and latrine facilities for females. When separate facilities are not available, separate times for male and female use should be scheduled and posted for showers.

Proper Preparation for High-Adventure Activities

Activities with elements of risk should never be undertaken without proper preparation, equipment, clothing, supervision, and safety measures.

No Secret Organizations

The Boy Scouts of America does not recognize any secret organizations as part of its program. All aspects of the Scouting program are open to observation by Parents and Leaders.

Appropriate Attire

Proper clothing for activities is required. For example, skinny-dipping is not appropriate as part of Scouting.

Constructive Discipline

Discipline used in Scouting should be constructive and reflect Scouting's values. Corporal punishment is never permitted.

Hazing Prohibited

Physical hazing and initiations are prohibited and may not be included as part of any Scouting activity.

Youth Leader Training and Supervision

Adult Leaders must monitor and guide the leadership techniques used by Youth Leaders and ensure that BSA policies are followed.