A few years ago, a teacher called me about my youngest son's behavior in class. Despite expecting a negative report, I was surprised to hear that he had made his classmates laugh with a funny comment. The teacher scolded him, but I encouraged her to appreciate his humor as a coping skill.
Prior to this incident, the teacher had suggested that my son might have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder due to his high energy levels. I chose not to medicate him.
As a mother of two boys, including an 18-year-old, I have noticed a trend of boys being treated with disdain by teachers, administrators, and society in general. This negative perception of boys has led to their exhaustion and disengagement.
The ongoing war on boys and men has resulted in many young men leaning towards conservatism, as they feel more accepted by the conservative movement. This shift has been fueled by the progressive narrative that constantly criticizes and undermines young men.
In a recent podcast, Eric Weinstein discussed how teenage boys are being pushed towards conservatism by their schools, which promote a narrative that demonizes masculinity and belittles male instincts.
The portrayal of men, especially working-class men, as inherently flawed and toxic in media and entertainment has further contributed to this shift towards conservatism. The progressive culture's emphasis on women's issues and dismissal of male concerns has alienated many male voters.
While the right also has its flaws, many men find solace in the fact that the conservative movement does not demonize them for their gender. This acceptance has resonated with millions of men, including those who voted for Donald Trump.
As a columnist and mother, I am disheartened by the way progressives view boys and men. It is time for a shift in the way we approach masculinity and address the needs of young men in our society.
Nicole Russell is a columnist at USA TODAY and a mother of four who lives in Texas. Contact her at nrussell@gannett.com and follow her on X, formerly Twitter: @russell_nm. Sign up for her weekly newsletter, The Right Track, here.