<p>I agree that most schools tend to be optimized for girls, and that it can negatively affect boys. It would be wonderful if schools could take their cue from developmental discoveries. Wouldn’t if be great to have frequent fun physical breaks during the day, like 15 minutes of dodge ball right after math? To mix activities that require quiet concentration with those that release energy, like singing or drumming? </p>
<p>I think there are some boys who especially suffer from being in a typical public school situation, such as those who have attention deficits, excessive energy, aggressive responses, or react negatively to authority. Many of them could thrive with a more tribal structure - alpha leader, hunting in packs, team survival activities, discipline imposed on the ranks. Guided and positive example: a good military school; freeform and laissez-faire example: gangs.</p>
<p>Those with a case of academic turn-off or oppositional behavior often improve significantly in structured environments with clear boundaries, where there is some unifying theme and the activites foster self-esteem and the personal pride that results from conquering obstacles. A structure similar to the military system in basic training - effective at harnessing all that energy and stimulating the inner desire to achieve.</p>