SymptomsEach of the symptoms below, and others like them, is an expression of a root issue. Although adolescent boys show their wounds differently, they all have one thing in common: they can be helped.
Flight → Aimless → Fight
- Depression
- Suicidal thoughts, self-harm, chemical abuse
- Introversion
- Extreme introversion, bed wetting,
- Apathy
- Lack of interest in friends, moody, changed habits
- Grief
- Adjusting to divorce, difficulty communicating emotions
- Anxiety
- Shutting down, low self-esteem, lost sense of self
- Anger
- Overblown response, punching walls, cursing
- Violence
- Fighting, verbal abuse, violent behavior
By understanding the root cause of pain, boys across the spectrum can feel better, find their sense of self, and overcome the symptoms that both hinder and control their behavior.To get to the root of each boy’s behavioral issues, The Quest Project works within a unique group format. By conducting sessions in groups of five to eight, boys have the chance to bond over their struggles and identify with each other–even if their symptoms manifest themselves differently. The group dynamic breaks down traditional counseling barriers–starting at week one. It gives boys the chance to build their band of brothers and disabuse the notion that it’s “me against the world.”
Is it Right for my Son?Trust your gut. There’s probably a reason you’re exploring The Quest Project. Like our boys, parents are learning to navigate this modern society too.If something seems off in your son’s behavior, his sense of self, or his trajectory toward the future, it’s worth addressing now. When it comes to boys today, we see a lot of suffering from depression, anxiety, and anger. It doesn’t have to be this way.This pivotal moment in your son’s development will eventually affect the man he will become. Research shows that from ages 12 to 15, adolescents are essentially “firming up” the identities they’ll own for the rest of their lives; early intervention can mean the difference between healthy men and troubled adults. Because adolescence is difficult for most boys, The Quest Project works with boys on either side of the 12-15 age range. The Project has been shown to have a tremendous effect on boys from as young as 10 to those in the final moments of adolescence, at age 18.
“It’s not only for boys who are acting out, it’s for kids who need to reiterate the solid ground to stand on and be themselves.”
Mom of a participant.
