Boys in the Digital Age: A Closer Look at Their Struggles
The digital world is shaping the lives of boys in ways that are causing concern. There's a growing trend where boys are being drawn to online content that promotes outdated gender roles and sometimes even harmful ideas about women. This isn't just a small issue; it's a big part of the culture right now.
The Influence of Online Culture
Take, for example, the Netflix show "Adolescence." It shows how a young boy influenced by this online culture can act out in harmful ways. Even politicians are taking notice. The Democratic Party is spending millions to connect with young men, and California's governor is talking about the problems boys face in school and with their mental health.
The Role of Common Sense Media
Jim Steyer, who runs Common Sense Media, has been watching this issue for a long time. He started his work by focusing on how movies and TV affect kids. But as social media grew, he saw how it was influencing boys and girls differently.
- Girls often struggle with body image issues because of the perfect pictures they see online.
- Boys, on the other hand, are being pulled into a world of harmful ideas about being a man.
The Fear of Lost Opportunities
Steyer points out that many boys feel like they won't have the same opportunities as their parents. This fear can make them more vulnerable to the messages they see online. It's not just about jobs; it's about their sense of self and their future. Steyer believes this is a big part of why boys are being drawn to these harmful online communities.
Addressing the Crisis
Common Sense Media is working on new ways to teach kids about the digital world. They're also doing research to understand how these online communities affect boys. Steyer believes this is a crisis that needs attention. It's not just about mental health; it's about how boys see themselves and their place in the world.