Being A Boy

Growing up can be hard enough without feeling like the world is against you. Here we take a look at a couple of issues facing lads today.

Roles

Even in your parents time there were clear roles for males to play - protector, breadwinner, father, son, boss, husband. But changes in families and work mean these are no longer so clear (and some felt they never fitted these in the first place!). Survival today means being flexible about what it means to 'be a man'.

Think about people you admire. It might be a TV personality, footballer, youth worker or family member. Think why you admire them - what qualities do they have? And how can you work at being more like them?

Fighting & Anger

Aggression is one of the strongest emotions and some of you will find it the hardest to control. In ancient times it was needed for hunting and fighting, for survival. But survival in the 21st century relies on being able to cope with, and harness, your aggression.

You do still need some, to be competitive in work and play. But when aggression turns into violence or bullying against others, you are only doing yourself harm. Find some way of diverting your aggression into sport, or the discipline of exercise (go to the Young Scot Sport & Leisure Channel for a few ideas), or discover ways to calm yourself down - with music, exercise, swimming, or listening to music.

More...

Young Scot WOW - If you are looking for things to do, this is the site for you.

BBC The Surgery Website - Loads of information on anything and everything to do with life.

Sort Out Stress Website - This website is aimed at boys, and includes some information on anger.

Last modified: 14/05/2010 15:00:50