The Boy Child: Understanding and Supporting Their Unique Needs
By: Dorcas Owusu
(Teacher at Opoku Ware School)
Email: (dorcasowusudansowaa@gmail.com)
+233 20 651 2645
A nation that builds its boys builds a better tomorrow.
Introduction
While much focus has been placed rightly on empowering the girl child, we must not forget the boy child.
Boys face unique challenges that shape who they become.
If we want a future filled with strong, compassionate, responsible men, we must begin by understanding and supporting boys today.
Challenges the Boy Child Faces
1. Emotional Suppression:
Society often teaches boys to hide emotions. Over time, this emotional suppression can lead to deeper issues like anxiety or anger.
2. Lack of Positive Role Models:
Many boys grow up without consistent male figures to look up to, leaving them vulnerable to negative influences.
3. Academic and Social Pressures:
From excelling in sports to avoiding “feminine” interests, boys are pressured to fit narrow definitions of masculinity.
4. Risky Peer Influence:
The pressure to prove oneself can drive boys into harmful behaviors like substance abuse or violence.
How We Can Support the Boy Child
1. Normalize Emotional Expression:
Let boys cry. Let them talk. Let them be human.
2. Provide Strong Male Role Models:
Men in families, churches and communities must model integrity and empathy.
3. Celebrate Their Talents:
Support boys whether they want to be athletes, artists, teachers or caregivers.
4. Teach Core Values:
Instill respect, patience and humility in every setting: from home to church to school.
5. Create Safe Spaces:
Start boys’ mentorship programs in churches, schools, and communities.
Let them speak and be heard.
Conclusion
The boy child is not just a future man.
He is today’s responsibility.
Supporting him means investing in a better, wiser, more compassionate society.
Let us not leave boys to figure out life alone.
Let us walk with them.
Announcement! Announcement!!
ADN Foundation in collaboration with Opoku Ware School
presents
“International Boy Child Day” Symposium
Theme:
“Empowering the Boy Child: Breaking Barriers, Building Futures”
Date : 16th May, 2025
Venue: Katakyie Joe Mensah Auditorium, Opoku Ware School
Time : 1pm
Sponsorship needed to make this course a success.
