Real boys

Real Boys Many boys today hide behind the mask of masculinity. They feel it is necessary to cut themselves off from any feeling that society teaches them is wrong for men and boys—fear, uncertainty, feelings of loneliness and need. Boys are not expected to reach out to anyone for help and therefore they try to handle problems alone. It is hard for boys to express themselves to the people that love them and want …

…from society. He may be stared at or whispered about, he may be humiliated, he may get a punch or fought, or he may just feel terribly ashamed. Without safe places where they feel they can voice their pain and humiliation, boys begin to toughen themselves into men. They become cut off from their own feelings, and can’t express feelings any more. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ **Bibliography** Pollack, William S. “Real Boys.” Random House Inc., New York, 1998