In this small seminar, we study the origins and development of differences between the sexes and how the differences affect development in other areas. We consider current literature on the unique characteristics of the development of boys and men, and how the experiences of boys and men shape their development and create risks to their wellbeing. We will focus on successful parenting and teaching practices, and the implications of male development for couple and family relationships. Our purposes in this seminar are to: Examine what we know and what we believe about the development of boys and men; Construct a clear understanding of the origins and development of differences between the sexes; Review and critique some of the current research and popular writing about boys and men; Consider the settings and transactions available to boys in our culture, and their effects on boys? development; Construct suggestions for parents, teachers, partners, and others who have interest in the development of boys and men; Improve our understanding of the politics of research and of popular interpretations of research on boys and men; Exercise our critical and integrative faculties; Improve our discussion and writing skills; Produce articulate statements of our understanding of the research and its implications.

Prerequisites for enrollment: Junior or Senior with 9 credits of HDFS, or graduate standing.