Questions you might ask a group to consider:
- What does “being a role model” look like in our organization?
- Are there behaviors we tolerate in staff or volunteers that wouldn’t be acceptable from a participant? And vice versa?
- How do we model healthy boundaries, emotional regulation, and accountability?
- How do we encourage consistency between what we say and how we act?
- What happens when a trusted adult makes a mistake? How do we repair and learn without undermining credibility?
Discussion items:
These are items you could use to guide a discussion on being a positive role model in terms of behavior requirements and expectations at a child or vulnerable adult-serving organization:
Adults are required to model the behavior they expect from others. This includes showing respect, using appropriate language, keeping boundaries, and managing conflict calmly.
We understand that individuals bring different personalities and leadership styles. Whether quiet or outgoing, formal or relaxed, all adults are expected to lead by example in their conduct.
Emotional regulation is non-negotiable. Adults must never yell, lash out, or use fear-based tactics to control behavior. Calm, consistent responses are mandatory.
We recognize that stressful moments happen. What defines a role model is not perfection, but the ability to stay grounded and manage stress without causing harm.
Adults must maintain clear professional boundaries at all times. Personal friendships with participants, private communication outside program channels, or seeking emotional closeness from youth or vulnerable adults are strictly prohibited.
It’s natural to care deeply about the people we serve. But care must be expressed through consistency, safety, and structure, not through personal connection or over-involvement.
Accountability is a core part of modeling integrity. Adults are expected to admit mistakes, take correction without defensiveness, and repair trust when needed.
No adult may model disrespectful behavior toward colleagues, even in disagreement. Children and vulnerable adults learn how to treat others by watching how we treat each other.
Presence matters. Adults must be engaged, attentive, and distraction-free. Multitasking, phone use, or disengagement during supervision are unacceptable.
True role modeling is not about being liked—it’s about being trustworthy. Children and vulnerable adults need consistency, structure, and clear boundaries more than affection or popularity.