Boys begin to channel primary emotions into anger around age 9-10. Men often struggle to name and navigate their feelings, leading to pain and hurtful behavior. To raise emotionally strong sons, parents must learn to acknowledge and address their own emotional needs, and teach their children to do the same. This involves equipping them with skills and strategies to manage anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges, and modeling healthy emotional expression and regulation. [... more]

David Thomas discusses the signs of an unhealthy home, including not recognizing emotions, not regulating emotions, and not repairing relationships. He shares personal stories and research to illustrate these points, emphasizing the importance of emotional health and strong relationships in family dynamics. [... more]

Boys often engage in physical activities like hitting or punching, which can be puzzling for parents who didn't grow up with brothers. David Thomas, a counselor specializing in boys, explains that this behavior is normal and a way for boys to release energy and intensity. He recommends creating a 'space' for boys to engage in physical activity, such as hitting a pillow or a punching bag, and then teaching them breathing exercises to calm down and regulate their emotions. [... more]

Raising emotionally strong boys requires acknowledging their emotional nature and teaching them to name and navigate their feelings. This involves recognizing the vulnerabilities of boys, such as the tendency to channel primary emotions into anger, and addressing the impact of traditional masculinity on their mental health. Effective parenting involves equipping boys with skills to manage their emotions, seeking help when needed, and modeling healthy relationships with God and others. [... more]

Raising emotionally strong boys requires understanding their unique energy and emotional needs. Parents must learn to navigate their sons' physicality and intensity, and help them develop a full emotional vocabulary. By acknowledging the differences between boys and girls, parents can make informed decisions to honor their sons' development and create a supportive environment for their growth. [... more]