Let’s tell the truth for a minute. If you ask the average Nigerian why young boys drift into cybercrime (Yahoo), rituals, or gangs, they will give you the same tired answer: “It’s poverty, Ola. The economy is hard. There are no jobs.” It sounds logical. It sounds compassionate. But it’s a lie. If poverty were
Look around. How many boys do you know who spend hours gaming or scrolling but feel empty after? Have talent but zero motivation to use it? Hang with friends who drag them down but don’t know how to leave? Feel angry, tired, or off but can’t explain why? This isn’t a personality flaw. It’s a
As a mentor for boys and the founder of BMAN, I hear the same questions from parents, educators, and caregivers. They are questions born of deep love, but also deep frustration: “Why won’t he just listen?” “Why is he so difficult?” “Why can’t he be more like his brother?” We see a boy’s behavior on the
A father’s happiness is far more than a personal emotion—it is a foundational force that shapes his son’s worldview, emotional health, and future relationships. In a society that often overlooks the emotional needs of boys, paternal happiness serves as a protective factor, fostering resilience, self-worth, and positive masculinity. At Boys Mentoring Advocacy Network (BMAN), we
Adolescence is a time of growth and self-discovery, often marked by a questioning of rules and authority. For some boys, this quest manifests as a strong desire to assert independence, sometimes leading to disobedience. Understanding these behaviors isn’t just about imposing discipline; it’s about comprehending the developmental, psychological, and societal factors at play. In this
The father-son relationship is a crucial aspect of a boy’s development, shaping his self-esteem, identity, and future relationships. However, this relationship is not always straightforward. Boys commonly face concerns about their fathers that can influence their emotional and psychological well-being. In this post, we explore these concerns, provide illustrative scenarios, and back our discussion with
Raising boys can be challenging, often leading parents and caregivers to lash out in frustration. However, yelling as a method of communication or discipline can have detrimental effects on boys’ emotional and psychological development. This blog post delves into the impact of yelling on boys, supported by research and evidence, and suggests constructive alternatives for
Instilling discipline in boys has never been more critical than this era marked by constant digital distractions and fast-paced lifestyles. Developing focus and self-discipline not only contributes to academic success but also enhances personal growth and resilience. In this blog post, we explore strategies to move boys from distraction to focus, backed by scientific evidence
Suicide is a critical public health issue, and its impact on boys and young men is particularly poignant. While various factors contribute to this tragic outcome, certain missing qualities or protective factors can significantly influence the risk. In this blog post, we will explore the essential qualities that, when absent, may contribute to increased vulnerability
The concept of the “father wound” refers to the psychological and emotional pain or void that arises from a father’s absence, neglect, or abusive behavior. This issue can significantly impact a boy’s development and self-esteem, leading to long-term effects on relationships and personal growth. Recognizing the signs of a father wound is essential for providing