Our Sons
are at Risk
Boys and young men today are facing challenges that are more complex and potentially devastating than those of previous generations. They need to know someone cares about them and they have value. Staying connected with your son through the written word is an effective way to make your son feel grounded, loved, accepted and confident.
Dangers Facing Young Men Today
Our sons spend every day facing pressures that previous generations could hardly dream of, accelerated by the onrush of digital technology, artificial intelligence, immediate access to global information networks and powerful computerized programs designed to capture and hold their attention, discourage real-life social interactions and heavily influence their behavior. Statistics show that:​
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Boys are falling behind in high school and college enrollment and graduation rates
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Boys are more likely to skip school and/or be suspended from school
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Boys are more likely to be diagnosed with attention deficit disorder and learning disabilities
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The percentage of boys living without their biological fathers has doubled since 1960 to 32 percent (12 million).
Our sons are constantly at risk of being threatened by:
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Media modeling of self-centered, narcissistic attitudes and behavior
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False images and impressions of distorted reality
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Legalization and promotion of previously illegal substances
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Limited career opportunities for the future
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Degradation of cultural norms and standards of decency
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On-line pornography
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Deteriorating educational system
These realities make it even more important that fathers make a determined effort to connect with their sons in a meaningful way.
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Here are two good resources:
"Of Boys And Men: Why the Modern Male is Struggling, Why It Matters, and What To Do About It" by Richard V. Reeves, a senior fellow in economic studies at the Brookings Institution.
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"How to Raise a Boy: The Power of Connection to Build Good Men” by Michael C. Reichert, founding director of the Center for the Study of Boys' and Girls' Lives at the University of Pennsylvania.