Gender Inequality in Both Directions: Addressing the Education Gap for Boys and Men

Title IX, a landmark piece of legislation passed in 1972, expanded economic and educational opportunities for women in the US. However, over the years, gender gaps in higher education have shifted, with women now outpacing men in college degrees. This trend is not limited to the US but can be observed in many economically advanced countries. In addition, boys are trailing behind girls at various levels of the education system, with girls consistently performing better academically. Intersectionality plays a role, as boys from poorer and middle-class backgrounds face greater barriers to attending college. The gender gaps are less pronounced in affluent communities and even more stark for black Americans. Addressing the education gap for boys and men requires considering both gender and racial inequality, as well as economic disparities. It is important to recognize that the inequities in the education system are not intentional but have unintentionally disadvantaged boys and men.