A few months ago, I had my friend and colleague Cathy Adams on the show to talk about her book Restoring Our Girls and raising daughters to be emotionally healthy in a complicated world. I knew then that I wanted to have a similar conversation for a future episode, but this time, focusing on boys, specifically about why many teen boys are struggling right now and what we, as parents, can do to support them. I also knew exactly who I wanted to bring on the show to talk about this — Dr. John Duffy.
Through his private practice, bestselling books, and media appearances on CNN, NPR, and the Today Show, John has helped thousands of parents navigate the complex world of raising teens in today’s world. And he’s really got a pulse on the complex inner lives of today’s teen boys.
In this conversation, we talk about the unique mental health challenges boys are facing today, from increased isolation and anxiety to the messages they are getting from society that are leading to self-doubt and emotional struggles. We also discussed how the pandemic intensified these issues and why paying attention to the media they are consuming is key to connecting with them. John also shared how neurodivergent boys may experience these challenges differently and shared practical strategies for fostering emotional resilience and self-worth.
About my guest
Dr. John Duffy is a Chicago-based clinical psychologist, best-selling author, keynote speaker and national media expert. He has been in private practice for 25 years, specializing in work with adolescents, young adults and their parents. Dr. Duffy has written three best-selling books intended to provide parents with the tools to help their teens and young adults thrive in this persistent age of anxiety. For more than a decade, Dr. Duffy has also spoken to thousands of parents internationally through PTA’s, Fortune 500 corporate programs, and other parenting networks.
Dr. Duffy has written and contributed to articles for CNN, the Washington Post, The New York Times, Your Teen, Time and countless other media outlets. On television, he has been a regular contributing expert on NewsNation and Steve Harvey, and has shared his expertise through frequent appearances on CNN, the Today show, the Morning Blend, and hundreds of appearances on local and regional outlets. On radio, Dr. Duffy is a regularly appearing expert on WGN, WLS and NPR.He shares his current articles on his Substack titled On Parenting and Life.
Things you'll learn
Why boys are facing a growing mental health crisis, with increasing isolation, lack of hope, and behavioral challenges
How the pandemic intensified boys' disconnection, highlighting a significant gender divide in mental health
How societal narratives around masculinity contribute to self-loathing and emotional struggles in boys
How parents can foster connection by engaging with their sons' interests and understanding their media influences
Why looking beyond surface behaviors helps parents support boys' emotional well-being and sense of identity
Resources
Dr. John Duffy’s website
Rescuing Our Sons: 8 Solutions to Our Crisis of Disaffected Teen Boys by Dr. John Duffy
Parenting the New Teen in the Age of Anxiety: A Complete Guide to Your Child’s Stressed, Depressed, Expanded, Amazing Adolescence by Dr. John Duffy
The Available Parent: Expert Advice for Raising Successful Teens and Tweens by Dr. John Duffy
Dr. John Duffy on Facebook
Dr. John Duffy on Instagram
Dr. John Duffy’s Substack, On Parenting & Life
Parenting the New Teen with Dr. John Duffy (Tilt Parenting Podcast)
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