Boy Crisis: Why Our Boys Are Struggling and What We Can Do About It

The boy crisis is a crisis of education, mental health, fathering, and purpose. Boys are 50% less likely than girls to meet basic proficiency in reading, math, and science, and their suicide rates go from equal to girls to six times that of young women. They are growing up with less-involved fathers and are more likely to drop out of school, drink, do drugs, become delinquent, and end up in prison.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 14 March 2019
Publisher: BenBella Books

The Boy Crisis is a multifaceted issue that encompasses various aspects of boys' lives, including education, mental health, fathering, and purpose. It is a crisis that affects boys worldwide, with significant disparities in their academic achievements, mental well-being, and relationships with their fathers.

Education: Boys are 50% less likely than girls to meet basic proficiency in reading, math, and science, according to the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). This gap in education has significant consequences for boys' future opportunities and success. Boys who struggle in school are more likely to drop out, face unemployment, and struggle to find meaningful employment.

Mental Health: The Boy Crisis is also a crisis of mental health. ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is on the rise among boys, and as they become young men, their suicide rates go from equal to girls to six times that of young women. Mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and substance abuse are also prevalent among boys.

Fathering: Boys are growing up with less-involved fathers, and this has significant consequences for their development. Boys who do not have a strong relationship with their fathers are more likely to drop out of school, engage in risky behaviors such as drinking, drug use, and delinquency, and end up in prison. Fatherlessness can also contribute to boys' feelings of alienation, withdrawal, and addiction to immediate gratification.

Purpose: The traditional sense of purpose for boys, being a warrior, a leader, or a sole breadwinner, is fading. Many bright boys are experiencing a purpose void, feeling alienated, withdrawn, and addicted to immediate gratification. They are searching for meaning and purpose in their lives but often struggle to find it.

The Boy Crisis is a complex issue that requires a comprehensive response from parents, teachers, and policymakers. Here are some suggestions for addressing the crisis:

Invest in Early Childhood Education: Early childhood education is crucial for boys' development. Providing access to high-quality early childhood education programs can help close the education gap and set boys on a path to success.

Encourage Positive Father-Child Relationships: Fathers play a critical role in their sons' development. Encouraging positive father-child relationships through programs such as father-involvement initiatives, counseling, and support groups can help improve boys' mental health, behavior, and academic performance.

Promote Mental Health Awareness: Raising awareness about mental health issues among boys is essential. Providing access to mental health services, counseling, and support can help boys identify and address their mental health concerns.

Foster a Sense of Purpose: Encouraging boys to develop a sense of purpose can help them find meaning and fulfillment in their lives. This can be done through programs that promote leadership, teamwork, and community service.

Support Boys' Education: Providing resources and support to boys who struggle in school can help them stay engaged and motivated. This can include tutoring, mentoring, and specialized programs that address boys' unique learning needs.

Address Gender Stereotypes: Gender stereotypes can negatively impact boys' development. Encouraging boys to pursue their interests and aspirations without fear of judgment or discrimination can help them develop a sense of self-worth and confidence.

In conclusion, the Boy Crisis is a multifaceted issue that requires a comprehensive response from parents, teachers, and policymakers. By investing in early childhood education, promoting positive father-child relationships, raising awareness about mental health, fostering a sense of purpose, and addressing gender stereotypes, we can help our sons become happier, healthier men, and fathers and leaders worthy of our respect.

Weight: 620g
Dimension: 154 x 229 x 39 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781948836135