#Youthdevelopment

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 recent study from the University of Reading has brought a simple but impactful message to breakfast tables around the world, including Thailand: adding just a handful of walnuts to your morning meal could significantly enhance your brain function throughout the day. This research, published in the journal Food & Function, found that young adults who consumed 50 grams of walnuts with their muesli and yoghurt at breakfast enjoyed faster reaction times and improved memory performance, but with interesting timing differences—memory benefits were especially notable later in the day compared to those who ate a calorie-matched breakfast without nuts (The Independent, University of Reading, Sci.News).

A recent study from the University of Reading suggests a tiny morning tweak can sharpen thinking for the day ahead. Eating a handful of walnuts with breakfast improved reaction times and memory performance in healthy young adults. The researchers found that memory benefits emerged later in the day, strengthening the case for nuts as a practical brain boost.

For Thai readers, where commutes, classes, and busy workdays demand sustained mental sharpness, this finding is especially relevant. Cognitive lapses are often chalked up to sleep, stress, or distractions. This study indicates a straightforward dietary adjustment could help students and professionals stay alert throughout their routines.