Posts Tagged ‘raising sons’
A Society of Absent Fathers
We’re all entitled to an opinion, right? Do you remember Andy Rooney, he used to give his straight forward and sometimes controversial opinion at the end of 60 Minutes? I’d like to share mine and it has to do with this, the effect the absent father is having on society. R-E-S-P-E-C-T I’ve not been shy about…
Read MoreRaising 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.
Read MoreA Story of Volunteerism
Would you be surprised if I told you a story about seven young men, ages 11-16 working every Saturday in a garden? Charity Patch is Born Five years ago, my wife and I set out to “find” an initiative we could get behind that would allow us to give back to the community. Long…
Read MoreTo: 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…
Read MoreCore 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!…
Read MoreFantasy Son
Every parent has hopes and dreams for their child; a fantasy! You looked at your newborn boy and saw endless possibilities. He’ll be a doctor, star athlete, CEO of a corporation or President of the United States! The problem with this kind of thinking is that there is usually—in fact, always—a difference between this fantasy son you’ve created…
Read MoreRite-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…
Read MoreRaising 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…
Read MoreMasculinity Is Not The Enemy
We’re hearing a lot these days about masculinity and boys. Most of what’s being said I disagree with! Masculinity Masculinity is being attacked as a problem, a bad thing, that it’s toxic. As a facilitator, researcher and male I find this disturbing! Masculinity isn’t why a boy would walk into a school and begin shooting. Masculinity…
Read MoreThe 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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