Raising Boys to Be Good Men Book Summary

In "Raising Boys to Be Good Men," author Steve Biddulph delves into the intricacies of nurturing young boys into compassionate and responsible adults. With insightful anecdotes and expert guidance, Biddulph challenges traditional notions of masculinity and offers a refreshing perspective on emotional intelligence. He emphasizes the vital role of fathers and male figures in shaping character, advocating for open dialogue and vulnerability. As he explores the impact of society on boys' development, he provides practical strategies for fostering empathy and resilience. This transformative guide promises to inspire parents and caregivers to raise boys who thrive—and ultimately, change the world for the better.

By Aaron Gouveia

Published: 2020

"Raising boys to be good men is about teaching them to be true to themselves while respecting others."

Book Review of Raising Boys to Be Good Men

"If you are the parent of a boy . . . this is the book you need . . . insightful, enlightened, practical." —Peggy Orenstein, New York Times bestselling author of Boys & Sex From the dad who created the viral tweet supporting his son wearing nail polish, this essential parenting guide shares 36 parenting tips for battling gender norms, bringing down "man up" culture, and helping sons realize their potential. Our boys are in a crisis. Toxic masculinity and tough guy-ism are on display daily from our leaders, and we see anger, dysfunction, violence, and depression in young men who are suffocated by harmful social codes. Our young sons are told to stop throwing like a girl. They hear phrases like “man up” when they cry. They are told “boys will be boys” when they behave badly. The “Girl Power” movement has encouraged women to be whoever and do whatever they want, but that sentiment is not often extended to boys. Just watch the bullying when boys try ballet, paint their fingernails, or play with a doll. But we can treat this problem—and the power lies in the hands of parents. It's not only possible to raise boys who aren't emotionally stifled and shoved into stereotypical gender boxes; it's vital if we want a generation of men who can express their emotions, respect women, and help nurse society back to a halfway healthy place. We can reframe manhood. From Aaron Gouveia, who gained viral fame after tweeting his support for his son’s painted fingernails (and who knows toxic masculinity very well), learn practical and actionable tips such as: Don’t accept different standards for moms and dads Teach boys that “girl” is not an insult and retire phrases like “boys will be boys” Show boys that expressing their emotions and being physical is a good thing Let boys pursue nontraditional interests and hobbies Talk to boys about consent and privilege Model healthy and respectful relationships for boys to emulate Penned with equal parts humor, biting snark, and lived advice, Raising Boys to Be Good Men is the essential parenting guide for raising sons to realize their potential outside the box. ​

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Raising boys to be good men is about teaching them to be true to themselves while respecting others.

Raising Boys to Be Good Men

By Aaron Gouveia