Background Information:

Lad culture
Recent research into how adolescent boys and young men see themselves reveals confusion about the role of young men in a rapidly changing society. Lack of positive role models, changing values, changing families and employment patterns, and the success of women in taking on what used to be exclusively male roles and jobs, are all identified as having an impact. What young men see as constant criticism of male youth in the media, is also a major issue for them. Some commentators have gone as far as to say that 'lads' have an identity crisis, and that while from the outside lad culture may not seem to have much to offer, for young men themselves it can offer identity, friendship and peer group approval.

Education and gender
Concerns about differences in educational achievements between boys and girls in the UK has been much in the news in recent years with girls outperforming boys on most levels. While debate continues as to whether this is caused by girls' achievement or boys' underachievement, there is evidence for concern. There are also issues for men in relation to an inability to recognise, and be able to talk about, emotions, and lack of adaptability. Work on emotional intelligence in recent years has demonstrated the importance of these areas to success in a wide range of relationships, tasks and work situations.

Opportunities for change
While there are differences of opinion over the degree to which adolescence is a turbulent time of conflicting emotions, there is evidence that for some young men there are problems around image and self-perception that operate against their personal development, especially in relation to seeking help. As with other groups in society there is clearly a need to understand where young men are coming from, and to tailor learning and personal development experiences appropriately.

Managing anger
Anger is a commonly experienced emotion that often arises as a result of frustration, and can be exacerbated by alcohol. When extreme it can be an intense and overpowering experience and may result in behaviour that is harmful to an individual and to others. People can also be affected by anger at a lower level without realising it. This may result in smouldering resentment that can lead to irritability, impatience, poor concentration and a tendency to deal harshly with other people, reaching a level where people take their underlying feelings out on others.