Redefining Masculinity in Today’s World The conversation around masculinity is evolving. Gone are the days when boys were taught to “man up” or hide their emotions. At the Boys Mentoring Advocacy Network (BMAN), we believe it’s time to champion a new narrative—one where strength is measured by character, empathy, and integrity. Backed by research, we
Growing up, many of us recall moments of needing guidance, understanding, or a helping hand from someone who could see the world through our eyes—a brother we could trust and look up to. Whether you had a sibling or not, becoming the brother you needed when you were younger is a powerful way to give
Abuse against men and boys remains a critically underreported and stigmatized issue globally. Societal norms often dismiss male victimization, perpetuating harmful stereotypes that men are “too strong” to be abused or “weak” if they seek help. This silence exacerbates trauma, isolates survivors, and allows cycles of violence to persist. At BMAN, we believe everyone deserves
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
Understanding the developmental journey of male children is a crucial component of effective mentoring and education. Each stage—cub, boy, and young man—brings unique challenges and opportunities. This blog post explores these three stages, drawing on research and data from around the globe to provide insights into how we can better support boys at each milestone
As we celebrate the International Day of Education, it is imperative to reflect on how education can empower the next generation, particularly boys, to navigate a rapidly changing global landscape. The transition from classroom to career is pivotal, requiring a holistic approach that goes beyond traditional academics. In this post, we explore strategies to prepare
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
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
Single motherhood is a challenging journey under the best circumstances, but mothering boys during difficult times presents unique hurdles and opportunities. The landscape of single parenting often requires navigating financial, emotional, and social challenges, all while striving to raise well-rounded, resilient young men. In this blog post, we dive into the perspectives of single mothers,