JAKARTA - It is not easy to raise a teenage boy. Especially the more challenges in this era of internet technology-cyber bullying, peer pressure, academic demands, and more.

All parents want their son to grow up to be a quality person. There are various ways to do this, starting from choosing the best school, joining various talent-interest clubs, registering for lessons, or bringing him to meet many people.

All of those things are good. Unfortunately, there are some mistakes that we may unwittingly make in educating our boys.

Hoping They Never Be Sad

Feeling various emotions is human. Often parents hope that their son will be free from feelings of sadness, cry, and hope that they will always be strong. In fact, all good expressions of sadness, frustration, shame, pride, fear, shame, love, desire, courage, insecurity are natural.

In fact, when you forbid them to express their sadness, there are some negative impacts that they will experience and carry over into adulthood.

Assuming They Never Became Victim

Environments that think that men are stronger will generally focus on paying attention to the safety and security of girls. They forget that boys can also be victims, be it victims of bullying. Bullying of boys can often lead to physical violence. Know the Differences in Bullying in Boys and Girls.

Require them to be great at sports

“You never have to be great at sports,” says Joanna Schroeder, feminist writer and co-author of the Western States Center Resource Guide For Parents On The Subject Of Teaching Children Media Literacy In The Age Of Modern American Extremism.

According to her, many people think that a real man should be good at sports. In fact, every child has their own talents and interests. Forcing children whose interests are in science, technology, art, or languages to love sports will only deprive them of their true abilities.

Allowing Them To Make Sexist Jokes

Ever heard of a group of teenage boys making sexist jokes and most of the victims are girls? This is something very immoral and can not be justified.

Emphasize to your child from the start to respect everyone and not to make sexist jokes, including laughing when someone else says it.

Stop Hugging Them When They Grow Up

Many parents think that boys, especially when they are in their teens, will be embarrassed if their parents hug them. In fact, physical touch is a common thing given as a form of affection, especially if your child's love language is physical touch. It also teaches children about genuine physical contact. So, nothing wrong.


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