The Purpose of Boys

March 2, 2009
Family therapist, author and boy advocate Gurian (The Wonder of Boys
; The Minds of Boys
) observes that many boys are struggling to find a sense of purpose, and society has not sufficiently stepped up to the plate to help. Gurian paints a grim picture of boys who have lost their footing; many are failing in school; turning to drugs, alcohol or gangs; and engaging in violent behavior. Gurian attributes this disturbing trend to a lack of purpose and urges parents to help their male offspring channel their energies into productive lives. By employing a three-family system, Gurian argues, parents can join together with other adults—leaders, mentors, coaches—and such institutions as schools and churches, to help boys refocus and get back on track. The author offers practical suggestions for helping parents address boys' needs, tackling such issues as sexuality, work and overuse of electronic media. Particularly useful are Gurian's boxed questions for discussion, which will help parents and educators communicate directly with boys themselves. He also includes suggestions to help boys succeed in academic settings, for example, using movement, project-driven curricula and debate. Gurian's team approach to raising a son gives parents the tools and encouragement they need to help boys find direction and fulfillment.

March 23, 2009
Verdict: Gurian offers what appears to be the culimnation of his "boy" books, offering a scientifically backed program to help boys thrive. Expect demand from parents, educators, and social workers. Background: Gurian, who first gained notoriety in 1995 with The Wonder of Boys, here focuses on smart but disinterested boys who squander their tremendous potential and seem adrift and purposeless. Using neurobiological studies, Gurian argues that the brains of boys and girls are fundamentally different and parents and teachers need to know how to build on these differences to make sure boys don't just "check out" of school, job seeking, career building, marriage, and family commitments.-Linda Beck, Indian Valley P.L., Telford, PA

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