Bringing Up Boys

Book Description

With so much confusion about the role of men in our society, it’s no wonder so many parents and teachers are asking questions about how to bring up boys. Why are so many boys in crisis? What qualities should we be trying to instill in young males? Our culture has vilified masculinity and, as a result, an entire generation of boys is growing up without a clear idea of what it means to be a man. In the runaway bestseller Bringing Up Boys, Dr. Dobson draws from his experience as a child psychologist and family counselor, as well as extensive research, to offer advice and encouragement based on a firm foundation of biblical principles.

Favorite Quotes

  1. The question confronting parents is, “How can we steer our boys and girls past the many negative influences that confront them on every side?”  It is an issue with eternal implications (6).
  2. Many parents, for example, are reluctant or ill equipped to teach their boys how they are different from girls or what their masculinity really means (16).
  3. Boys, when compared to girls, are six times more likely to have learning disabilities, three times more likely to be registered drug addicts, and four times more likely to be diagnosed as emotionally disturbed (33).
  4. While children of all ages – both male and female – have an innate need for contact with their fathers, let me emphasize again that boys suffer most from the absence or noninvolvement of fathers (55).
  5. Boys watch their dads intently, noting every minor detail of behavior and values (69).
  6. That is why I recommend that you as a mom reach out physically and touch your boys if you want to get their attention.  When they turn to look at you, give them your message in short bursts (84).
  7. The more your boys feel part of something loving and fun, the less they will need to rebel against it (93).