Focus on the Family with Jim Daly Best of 2025: How to Provide a Healthier, Happier Childhood for Your Son (Part 1 of 2)
Dec 9, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Dr. Meg Meeker, a renowned pediatrician and parenting expert, tackles the masculinity crisis facing today's youth. She highlights the crucial roles of faith, family, and friendships in shaping a boy's character. Dr. Meeker offers practical advice, emphasizing the importance of outdoor play and risk-taking in fostering healthy masculinity. She also shares seven essential secrets for parents, encouraging a long-term perspective on a boy's emotional development and maturity. Prepare to rethink how you guide your son!
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Masculinity As A Positive Identity
- Meg Meeker argues masculinity is a positive, distinct way of being separate from femininity.
- She warns cultural moves toward sameness are erasing healthy male identity and risks neutralizing masculinity.
Early School Bias Against Boys
- Meeker observes societal bias in early elementary settings where many teachers are women and view masculinity negatively.
- This bias pushes boys toward medication and discipline instead of understanding natural male behavior.
Risk Aversion Undermines Male Development
- Society's growing risk aversion conflicts with a core masculine drive toward risk-taking and adventure.
- Removing opportunities to fail and take measured risks harms boys' development of strength and resilience.
