Boys and young men in the United States are facing increasing challenges in education, mental health, and employment, according a report from the New York Times. Despite improvements in some areas, boys are falling behind their female peers in several aspects of life.
Educationally, boys often enter kindergarten less prepared than girls and continue to lag behind throughout their schooling. Girls consistently outperform boys in reading and earn higher GPAs. Boys are more likely to be suspended and have a lower high school graduation rate compared to girls. While boys tend to score better in math, the overall educational system is seen as less favorable to them. Richard Reeves, president of the American Institute for Boys and Men, noted that the educational system is not as “boy-friendly” as it should be.
Mental health issues are also prevalent among boys. About 28% of boys aged 3 to 17 have a mental, emotional, behavioral, or developmental problem, compared to 23% of girls. Boys are diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and autism more often than girls, though these may be underdiagnosed in girls. The expectation for boys to remain stoic often results in behavioral issues rather than emotional expression. Suicide rates among young men have risen significantly, with the rate for males aged 15 to 24 reaching 21 per 100,000 in 2023.
In terms of employment, the labor force participation rate for men aged 25 to 54 has decreased from 94% in 1975 to 89%, while women’s participation has increased from 55% to 78% in the same period. Many traditional male-dominated jobs have disappeared, while women have excelled in service-oriented roles. Despite earning less than men, women’s median weekly earnings have increased by 19% since 2000, compared to a 7% increase for men.
The data highlights the need for society to address the struggles faced by boys and young men, as noted by experts like Niobe Way, a professor at New York University, who emphasizes the importance of recognizing boys’ potential and helping them thrive.
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