Three and 4 of 9 Reasons ALL Boys Need a Rite-of-Passage

Last week I expanded on what it means when a boy begins to transition to a man and the importance of goal setting.  This week I give more detail on both anger and conflict.  During adolescence a boy begins to self regulate anger and he learns how to resolve conflict.  Teaching, guidance and support is critical. Anger-One of the “Big 4”…

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Raising Sons-Is He Bully or Bullied?

When a parent makes the decision it’s time to get a professional opinion; when their son exhibits signs of trouble, it’s critical they be open to the feedback of the professional and keep an open mind! Let me give an example.

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To: Dad

To all the fathers out there who are committed to be the best DAD they can be. When I refer to fathers in my blogs, I also emphasize and stress the importance of being a “responsible, healthy and safe role model.” More and more fathers are asking me “how do I be a good dad?”  My answer is…

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Core Value-Accountability

Along with honesty, empathy and integrity, I regard accountability a very important core value. The “Yes…but” Game Do you play the “yes…but” game at your house?  Too many times parents are quick to “move on” if their child has done something wrong.  “Yes, I wrecked the car mom…but it wasn’t my fault!” There’s no accountability!…

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A Special Message For Mom

This is dedicated to all the Mom’s out there who are raising son(s)!  Thanks To Mom If you’re a single Mom, you don’t need me to tell you how hard it is raising kids alone.  Most mom’s I talk to feel they are filling the role of dad too.  You are most likely working a full-time…

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Rite-of-Passage & Initiation (Part Two)

Last week I explained “rite-of-passage” and the important processes an adolescent boy goes through to become an initiated man.  Now let’s cover what being an initiated man means! Initiation to Manhood Adolescence ranges from 11-18 years of age. According to theorist, this stage of life is crucial; it gives individuals the challenge of establishing an…

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Parents How’s the “Exit Plan” Going?

Have you started your son’s exit plan? First, clearly this is not about “kicking your son out of the house” into a scary world without preparation.  It is exactly the opposite-it is responsible parenting, preparing him to be a responsible, independent and healthy adult.  Exit Plans Are Necessary  I often hear from parents that their adult son is…

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Raising Sons? The Need For Healthy Masculinity

Masculinity continues to be debated in the media as “bad” and “toxic” I’m motivated to bring some alarming facts to your attention.   Perp’s in Sheep’s Clothing If you’re watching the news you are hearing weekly sometimes daily of arrests of female teachers, female coaches perpetrating adolescent boys.  It’s becoming epidemic, CBS news reports there are more than…

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Broken Boys-Signs to Watch For

How can a parent not be worried sick to send their kid off to school; a place trusted for years to keep children safe.  We send our prayers and condolences to the families in Florida that lost loved ones.  I’m reminded of this saying: “Bad things happen to good people.” Help with the Grief In…

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The Quest Project-A Testimonial

Sharing a testimonial that is both validating and inspiring for me in the work that I do in The Quest Project®. Saying Thank You After a recent The Quest Project graduation, I received a very special Thank You note from a parent.  Here’s what they said: Dr. Clay, We wanted to say THANK YOU for…

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