Every other week it seems a new study comes out that adds to our already-formidable arsenal of parental worries. Even by those escalating standards, the report issued last week by the federal government’s National Center for Health Statistics contained a jaw-dropper: the parents of nearly one of every five boys in the United States were concerned enough about what they saw as their sons’ emotional or behavioral problems that they consulted a doctor or a health-care professional. By comparison, about one out of 10 parents of girls reported these kinds of problems. (See the study here.)
The report confirms what many of us have been observing for some time now: that lots of school-age boys are struggling. And, parents are intensely worried about them.
What is ailing our sons? Some experts suggest we are witnessing an epidemic of ADHD and say boys need more medication. Others say environmental pollutants found in plastics, among other things, may be eroding their attention spans and their ability to regulate their emotions.
Discussion Starters
1.) Conclusions drawn from studies can be wrong as often as they are correct. The story goes on to offer other explanations for behaviors within this apparent trend among American youth. Do you agree with the first class of assessments or the latter? Why? What other explanations could you give for a seeming increase in those diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and other behavioral conditions?
2.) Within your group, what percentage of students has been diagnosed with a mood or behavior disorder, and do you find boys more frequently or more severely affected than girls? If so, to what do you attribute this trend?
3.) What biblical counsel can you find in dealing with boys differently than girls? How do you handle boys’ unique needs within your ministry?
