WRAP


Coaching Boys Into Men:
What Men Can Do To Help
 

Boys need your advice on how to behave toward girls. Boys are watching how you and other men relate to women to figure out their own stance towards girls. Teach boys early that there is no place for violence in a relationship.

TEACH EARLY. It's never too early to talk to a child about violence. Let him know how you think he should express his anger and frustration-and what is out of bounds. Talk with him about what it means to be fair, share and treat others with respect.

BE THERE. Just being with boys is crucial. The time doesn't have to be spent in activities. Boys will probably not say this directly, but they want a male presence around them, even if only a few words are exchanged.

LISTEN. Hear what he has to say. Listen to how he and his friends talk about girls. Ask him if he's ever seen abusive behavior in his friends.

TELL HIM HOW. Teach him ways to express his anger without using violence. When he gets mad, tell him he can walk or talk it out, or take time out. Let him know he can always come to you if he feels like things are getting out of hand.

BRING IT UP. A kid will never approach you and ask for guidance on how to treat women. But that doesn't mean he doesn't need it. If you see or hear things that depict violence against women, tell him what you think about it. Never hesitate to let him know you don't approve of sports figures that demean women, or jokes, video games, and song lyrics that do the same. Be sure he knows that treating girls with respect is important.

BE A ROLE MODEL. Fathers, coaches, and any man who spends time with boys or teens will have the greatest impact when they "walk the walk." They will learn what respect means by observing how you treat other people. Be aware of how you express your anger. Let him know how you define a healthy relationship and always treat women and girls in a way that your son can admire.

TEACH OFTEN. Help him work through problems in relationships as they arise. Let him know he can come back and talk to you again anytime. Use every opportunity to reinforce the message that violence has no place in a relationship.

BECOME A FOUNDING FATHER. Show him how important the issue of violence against women and children is to you. Join thousands of men across the country who are taking a stand against violence.


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