Real Boys' Voices

What real boys have to say: "A lot of people use words like 'psycho' or 'wacko' to refer to those feeling glum or contemplating suicide. These slang terms create further isolation in teens who already feel alone." —Alexander, 18, from a small town in the South. "A guy is supposed to be strong, tall, and fast, embodying the ideal athlete, while also being smart and nearly perfect." —Chandler, 14, from a suburb in the Northwest. "What I hate about this school is being picked on in the halls and just about everywhere else." —Cody, 14, from a suburb in New England. In this compelling follow-up, Dr. William Pollack delves into the experiences of boys aged 10 to 20, capturing their secret struggles and passions in their own words. Their candid voices reveal how outdated societal expectations compel them to hide feelings of isolation, depression, longing, love, and hope. We hear from boys and young men from diverse backgrounds, including survivors of the Columbine massacre, who share powerful stories about bullying, drugs, sports, school, parents, and relationships. Pollack also provides strategies for initiating conversations and practical templates for various situations. This eye-opening exploration is essential reading for both teenage boys and girls, offering invaluable insights for everyone in their lives.