From Boys To Men:
Why It Matters     

Most people know that gender issues have a profound effect on our identity, our opportunity, and our intimate relationships. Since there is considerable discussion in society and in the media about feminism, most people have had at least some chance to think critically about female roles.  But there is much less discussion about male roles - for example: the pressures on boys to be tough and brave, to perform as athletes, not to show feelings of vulnerability or fear, to make money, to have sex (and to be heterosexual, not gay), and -- not infrequently -- to engage in violence and risk-taking.  Also, few people are aware that individuals who are more conservative in their attitudes about gender (or who believe males should have more power than females in a relationship) are less likely to use condoms and contraceptives and more likely to report unintended pregnancy, sexually transmitted infection, and HIV.
 
Scenarios USA wants to enable young people to reflect more meaningfully about how gender functions in their own lives, and how it interacts with other issues, such as race and class.  So for this year's "What's the REAL DEAL?" contest, they selected the topic of masculinity - what it means to become a man in our society, how that feels, how the "rules" of conventional masculinity affect everyone, and how both males and females benefit when guys can adopt more respectful and "equal" attitudes about gender roles. 
 
"What's The REAL DEAL About Masculinity?" promises great "learning moments" for thousands of kids, some amazing contest submissions, and plenty of rich experiences for Scenarios USA and those involved.  It also has the potential to generate important lessons for the entire adolescent health field.