Adolescent Boys: Exploring Diverse Cultures of Boyhood

by Judy Y. Chu (Editor), Niobe Way (Editor)

Many books have described how boys are failing at school, acting out, or shutting down emotionally. Lost in much of the ensuing public conversation are the boys themselves - the texture of their lives and the ways in which they resist stereotypical representations of them. boys from poor and working class families as well as those from African American, Latino, and Asian American backgrounds need to be understood in their own terms and not just as a contrast to white or middle class boys. Adolescent Boys brings together empirical research focused on understanding the development of boys from diverse racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. The authors show how the contexts of boys' lives, such as the schools they attend shape their identities and relationships. The research in this book will help professionals and parents understand the diversity and richness of boys' experiences.

Genres: Gender

380 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2004

Reviews

[aberamentho · Rating 3 out of 5]

The book presents an interesting attempt to delve into the complexities of boyhood across different cultural contexts. The authors tackle a subject that is often overlooked, offering a range of perspectives on the experiences and challenges faced by adolescent boys. The research is thorough, and the inclusion of diverse narratives is commendable, shedding light on how cultural and societal expectations shape young male identities.

However, the execution occasionally feels uneven. Some chapters are rich with insight and provide a nuanced understanding, while others seem to skim the surface, relying heavily on generalizations. The structure could have been more cohesive, as the transitions between sections sometimes feel abrupt, making it difficult to fully immerse in the discussion.

While this work succeeds in sparking important conversations, it ultimately leaves the reader wanting a deeper exploration of certain themes. It’s a solid read for those interested in gender studies or youth culture, but it falls short of being truly groundbreaking. A commendable effort, but not without its flaws.