Advancement.

Boy Scouting provides a series of surmountable obstacles and steps in overcoming them through the advancement method to obtain each scout rank. The Boy Scout plans his advancement and progresses at his own pace as he meets each challenge. The Boy Scout is rewarded for each achievement, which helps him gain self-confidence. The steps in the advancement system help a Boy Scout grow in self-reliance and in the ability to help others.

BSA Mission Statement

The mission of the Boy Scouts of America is to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Scout Law.

“Every Scouting activity moves boys toward three basic aims: character development, citizenship training, and mental and physical fitness.”
—Scoutmaster Handbook

“Advancement is one of the eight methods used by Scout leaders to help boys fulfill the aims of the BSA.”