The Impact of Male Role Models on Young Boys

Adult males are important in the lives of young boys, especially fatherless boys. Male role models affect young boys positively in many areas of life. Because of the high divorce rate in the World as a global village, the impact of male role models on young boys is particularly significant.   

    Qualities of Positive Male Role Models

    Social Impact of Male Role Models on Young Boys

   Boys tend to model social behavior, so they need male role models. The presence of a male role model improves the relationship a boy has with his siblings and custodial parent. Boys with male role models reported fewer problems with anger than boys who have no male role model, according to a survey conducted by the mentoring group Big Brothers Big Sisters.

    Substance Use and the Presence of Male Role Models

  Boys living apart from their fathers, without male role models are at dramatically greater risk for drug or alcohol abuse, according to statistics from the National Center for Health Statistics Survey on Child Health. The National Fatherhood Initiative reported a lack of closeness to a father positively correlated with use of alcohol, cigarettes and hard drugs in children.

    Academic Impact of Male Role Models on Young Boys

Evidence presented in a Big Brothers Big Sisters impact study shows that grades are higher for boys with male role models. Boys with male role models tend to attend school more regularly than boys who don't have male role models, according to the same study.

Qualities of a Good Role Model

Self-Esteem

 A role model is self-assured and happy with who she is. If a role model displays that she has self-esteem, those who look up to her will, too. A role model displays a streak of independence showing she does not need to follow current trends. Role models trust in being themselves. They are proud of who they are, but not cocky.

Handle Stress Positively

 Being human means having to constantly deal with stress and overcome obstacles. A role model sets a good example on how to handle pressure. Athlete role models can handle stress and can come through when the pressure is on. While they may not win every game, when they fail they attempt to learn from their mistakes.

Role Models Are Trustworthy

Trustworthy is another quality of a good role model. A role model is honest and doesn't lie. A role model possesses integrity and does the right thing even if no one is looking or he does not receive acknowledgment for his act.

Perseverance

A good role model also does what she says. A good role model delivers on her promises and can always be counted on even when she is overwhelmed and wants to quit. Perseverance is a key trait. Role models demonstrate that if they work hard to attain something, then others can, too. They give you dreams and goals to aspire to.

Respect for Others

How you treat others speaks volumes about who you are. A good role model listens to others and also considers opposing points of view. He treats others how he would want to be treated and is considerate of others. When making mistakes, a role model does not place the blame on others; he owns up to his own shortcomings.