Raising feminist men is now more important than ever. I want my boys to push back against patriarchy AND at the same time feel proud of who they are as boys. If you are like me, and you are raising boys and identify as a feminist, this episode is for you!

“There’s still lots of ways that the world makes us think that women can’t
or women shouldn’t be able to do all the things that men do”
– Amanda Sovik-Johnston

Research shows that children start absorbing stereotypes by the age of three, causing the world to expand for boys and shrink for girls by age ten. This shows how important it is to start having conversations about genders early on and the necessity to challenge features and characteristics assigned to men and women at home, in school, on tv, and really everywhere our kids spend time.

I’ll start this episode by sharing some tips I’ve been mulling over for the past few years. Then, I’ll be joined by Erin Spahr, LCPC, to talk more about what it means to raise boys as a feminist. Erin’s mission is to challenge the oppressive societal norms that disempower moms. She’s full of deep insights she brings to the table during the episode, so let’s dive in!

You can find our podcast Active and Connected Families wherever you listen to your podcasts, or easily click the links below to listen:

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In this episode on raising boys as a feminist, we cover:

  • What does it mean to Erin to be a feminist and how does this show up in her parenting?;
  • Starting the conversation with your boys;
  • Helping them observe what they see in the world around them;
  • How to talk to your kids about specific topics like toxic masculinity;
  • The role fathers play in raising feminist boys;
  • And so much more!

More about Active & Connected Family Therapy

Active & Connected Family Therapy is a mental health practice serving individuals, families, and our community. Our practice is designed to help people at all stages and from all walks of life by offering therapists and physicians with diverse backgrounds and specialties via face-to-face, walk-and-talk, and telemedicine appointments. Throughout, we are committed to developing strengths-based, authentic, and long-lasting relationships with you and your children. We hope to provide you with the support and insight you need to help your family navigate life’s hard times and joys.

Are you or your child struggling with mental health? We have a team of psychologists and psychiatrists who can help you out. You can learn more about our practice or contact us here.

More about Erin Spahr

Erin is a licensed therapist in private practice located in Raleigh, North Carolina. She specializes in helping mothers navigate the
complex transition to motherhood. Erin uses a feminist lens in her work with mothers and strives to help mothers free themselves from oppressive societal expectations and find more self-compassion.
She is married and is a mother of two boys, ages 10 and 4.

Resources and links mentioned in this episode

 

Disclaimer: Please remember we are real live therapists, however this is a podcast and is not considered a therapy session. Not only because there is no co-pay but also because we can’t speak to your individual experiences. We are here to help you keep raising healthy kids. And remember, if you are an imperfect parent, we are right there with you. If you or someone you love is in immediate danger, please call your local crisis hotline or go to your nearest emergency room.