Boys Will Be Boys

Synopsis

 

'The most important thing you'll read this year' Elle 

The incendiary new book about toxic masculinity and misogyny from Clementine Ford, author of the bestselling feminist manifesto, Fight Like A Girl.

Boys Will Be Boys answers the question Clementine Ford is most often asked: 'How do I raise my son to respect women?'

With equal parts passion and humour, Ford reveals how patriarchal society is as destructive for men as it is for women, creating a dangerously limited idea of what it is to be a man. She traces the way gender norms creep into the home from early childhood, through popular culture or the division of housework and shines a light on what needs to change for equality to become a reality.

 

Summary

Chapter 1: The Problem

* Delves into the extent and consequences of male violence, particularly against women.
* Provides statistics and case studies to illustrate the severity of the issue.
* Example: Citing the World Health Organization's finding that one in three women worldwide has experienced physical or sexual violence by an intimate partner.

Chapter 2: The Culture of Masculinity

* Explores the societal norms and values that shape male behavior.
* Discusses how traditional notions of masculinity emphasize aggression, dominance, and emotional suppression.
* Example: Describing the "warrior culture" in certain communities, where boys are encouraged to engage in physical fights and other aggressive behaviors to prove their worthiness.

Chapter 3: The Media's Role

* Examines the influence of media on male socialization.
* Argues that movies, TV shows, and video games often glorify violence and reinforce stereotypes about gender roles.
* Example: Citing a study that found a correlation between exposure to violent media and increased aggressive behavior in boys.

Chapter 4: The Education System

* Discusses the challenges and opportunities in addressing gender violence in schools.
* Explores the need for curricula that promote gender equality and teach boys healthy ways to express their emotions.
* Example: Describing an anti-bullying program that incorporates lessons on empathy and conflict resolution for students.

Chapter 5: The Family

* Highlights the role of families in shaping boys' attitudes and behaviors toward gender.
* Emphasizes the importance of positive male role models and nurturing environments where boys feel safe to express vulnerability.
* Example: Discussing the benefits of involving boys in household chores and caregiving activities to encourage empathy and responsibility.

Chapter 6: The Community

* Examines the role of community organizations and social norms in addressing male violence.
* Proposes strategies for creating safer and more inclusive environments for all.
* Example: Describing community-led initiatives that provide mentorship programs for at-risk youth and promote respectful relationships among boys.

Chapter 7: The Solutions

* Offers a comprehensive approach to preventing and reducing male violence.
* Advocates for education, social change, and policy interventions.
* Example: Discussing the effectiveness of gun control measures, sexual violence prevention workshops, and programs that challenge traditional masculinity norms.