#Boysdevelopment

A growing body of research investigated in a recent article in The Atlantic challenges conventional wisdom about how boys should be raised, revealing that gendered parenting and cultural expectations may be holding back the emotional and developmental well-being of boys. These findings carry special significance for parents and educators in Thailand, where traditional models of masculinity often shape family and school life.

In societies around the world, including Thailand, the prevailing narrative says that boys must be tough, stoic, and emotionally restrained to succeed in life. This perspective, fueled by generations of social customs and amplified by contemporary social media influencers as well as political rhetoric, encourages boys to suppress feelings in favor of physical strength and competition. However, new studies suggest that such approaches run counter to boys’ actual developmental needs and may have long-term negative effects, not just for the boys themselves but for wider society as well.

A wave of recent research summarized in a major national publication questions long-held ideas about raising boys. The findings suggest that traditional expectations of male toughness and emotional restraint may hinder boys’ emotional health and overall development. For Thai parents and educators, the implications are significant as family life and schools continue to shape young people’s growth.

Globally, including Thailand, the prevailing view has been that boys must be strong, stoic, and less expressive to succeed. This mindset is reinforced by cultural norms, social media, and political rhetoric, which can lead boys to suppress feelings in favor of competition and achievement. New studies, however, indicate such approaches may misalign with boys’ developmental needs and could carry long-term costs for individuals and society.

A growing body of research reshapes how Thai parents and educators view boys’ development. Findings highlighted in The Atlantic’s piece on parents of boys show that social norms and expectations — not biology — largely shape boys’ education, emotional health, and long-term success. This matters in Thailand, where evolving gender roles meet traditional values and national education debates.

Historically, many believed boys are naturally less verbal, less emotionally tuned, and more prone to behavioral issues. New studies, however, indicate these patterns arise from how adults interact with boys from infancy. Research cited in The Atlantic suggests the nurture gap begins early, with adults often speaking less and offering fewer emotionally rich interactions to baby boys than to girls.