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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First 2 of 9 Reasons ALL Boys Need a Rite-of-Passage

  When I wrote the 9 Reasons ALL Boys Need a Modern-Day Rite-of-Passage there was a surge in interest!  That tells me parents of boys are waking up to the critical needs of their sons.  They’re asking themselves-“What’s missing?”  Over the next few weeks, I’ll take those Top 9 Reasons and break them down and…

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9 Reasons ALL Boys Need A Modern-Day Rite-of-Passage

Rite-of-passage for males is a transition, and in its simplest terms means “changing from a boy to a man.”  Sounds easy right?  It’s not! It’s unfortunate that today in our society we have forgotten and moved away from recognizing and honoring this time in a young man’s life.  The result is Our Boys are in Trouble! If you read…

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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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A 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…

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The Quest Project® Manifesto

As a 20+ year retired Captain of the United States Air Force it goes without saying I love my country and am proud to be an American! Where else do you have the opportunity to be who you want to be, achieve your goals and debate your beliefs through freedom of speech. My observation, we…

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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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Counseling Professional Deepens Expertise with a PhD

Honored to have my work recognized by Capella in this recent interview! Counseling Professional Deepens Expertise with a PhD Some people might wonder why Clayton Lessor* bothered to get a PhD. A licensed professional counselor in St. Louis, Missouri, he already had a successful career in private practice, as well as numerous speaking and consulting gigs. “I wanted…

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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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Rite-of-Passage & Initiation (Part One of Two)

There is a much-needed focus today by both broadcast and print media on males and masculinity; you can virtually find a program or article on the subject at any given moment.  What I don’t see or hear is something I know very well through years of research, data and facilitation. Boys need a rite-of-passage and initiation…

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