What Happened to All the Good Role Models? Sifting Through Trashy Culture to Help Troubled Boys
Just when you think a celebrity or sports model may be someone for your son to relate to, a scandal breaks and the media is exposing sex, drugs, and alcohol abuse in their personal life. Is there nowhere to turn for a positive role model? Adults may realize the difference between reality and the media, but for teens who seek someone to identify with it may be confusing. It is important to put real-life heroes in your son’s life. This can be friends, family, or members of your community. Positive influences are everywhere, they just may not be as prominent as pop culture icons. Another system is to recognize good values or good deeds regardless of the person. When teens idolize an image, they can be led astray. When they’ve been taught to pay attention to values, their faith in values will not change even if the person changes.
We have counselors and adults who can exemplify what a true mentor should look like. Ashcreek Ranch Academy uses a combination of evidence-based therapy, equine therapy and group counseling. They embrace the method of Positive Peer Culture to treat struggling boys. If you have a troubled boy who needs help, call (435) 215-0500 for more information.
The Small Things May Be The Big Things
After going through a divorce, I was always fearful my sons wouldn’t have male mentors. But by looking for opportunities, I was surprised by how many positive males were in my community. My brother spends time teaching them how to care for the yard. They work hard, but he also makes it fun. My brother-in-law owns a small farm and has taught the kids how to feed and care for the horses, goats, cows, and chickens. Not everyone has the same opportunities, but I know if you have positive people in your life, your children will too. In addition to the positive influences, they also have men they can turn to for advice as they grow older. For more questions about how to identify role models in your community and make a difference with your son, call (435) 215-0500.