Boys Will Be Boys (Miedzian book)

Boys Will Be Boys: The Suppression of Natural Impulses in Boys is a 1991 non-fiction book written by Myriam Miedzian. It explores the societal pressures and cultural norms that, according to Miedzian, contribute to harmful and often violent behavior in boys and men.

Miedzian argues that the traditional construction of masculinity in Western societies actively suppresses empathy, sensitivity, and other "feminine" qualities in boys. This suppression, she claims, starts early in life and is reinforced by parents, peers, and media. The message conveyed is that boys must be tough, independent, and dominant, leading to an inability to express emotions healthily and contributing to aggression, misogyny, and a range of social problems.

The book examines various aspects of male socialization, including the impact of father-son relationships, the influence of violent role models, and the glorification of aggression in popular culture. Miedzian suggests that these factors create a culture where harmful behaviors are normalized and even encouraged, making it difficult for boys to develop into well-adjusted, empathetic men.

Boys Will Be Boys sparked significant debate upon its release and continues to be cited in discussions about gender roles, toxic masculinity, and the socialization of boys. While some critics argue that Miedzian's analysis is overly deterministic or ignores the complexities of individual experience, the book remains a significant contribution to the ongoing conversation about how to raise boys in a healthier and more equitable way. The central argument is a call for a societal shift that allows boys to embrace their full range of emotions and develop into compassionate and responsible adults.