Teaching Our Sons to Respect Women: A Journey That Begins at Home

Raising sons who respect women is not just a parental responsibility—it's a societal imperative. The foundation for this respect is laid at home, where children learn from observing their parents. How a son sees his father treat his mother, and vice versa, becomes the blueprint for how he will treat women in the future. It’s crucial to make it clear from the beginning that respect, empathy, and equality are non-negotiable values in every relationship.

The Role of Parental Behavior

One of the most powerful lessons a child can learn is that violence, in any form, is unacceptable. This starts with parents understanding that physical discipline—whether a mother threatening that "father will come home and teach you a lesson," or a father using his physical strength to discipline his child—is not only harmful but also sets a dangerous precedent. When boys see that physical strength is used to assert dominance, they may internalize the idea that it’s acceptable to use force to get what they want. This belief can easily translate into disrespectful behavior toward women.

Instead, parents should model respectful conflict resolution, showing that disagreements can be handled with words, not violence. Demonstrating that love and respect are the cornerstones of marriage is vital. Sons need to see that their mother and father are equal partners, who support, value, and respect each other. In doing so, they will learn that a healthy relationship is built on mutual respect, not power dynamics.

The Importance of Equal Marriage

Marriage should be an equal partnership where both the man and woman have an equal say in decisions, responsibilities, and the way love is expressed. When boys grow up seeing this dynamic, they understand that women deserve the same level of respect and consideration as men. They learn that being stronger physically does not give them the right to dominate, but rather, that strength should be used to protect and support, not to intimidate or control.

Counseling and Education: Starting Early

Child counseling should be made compulsory in schools to help young boys understand their emotions and the importance of respect in relationships. Early intervention can address and uproot problematic behaviors before they become ingrained. Schools should also focus on teaching emotional intelligence, helping children to develop empathy, self-awareness, and the ability to manage their emotions effectively.

Regular Emotional and Psychological Support

Organizations should also play a role in this ongoing education. Regular sessions on emotional intelligence and psychological well-being should be a staple in every workplace. This not only helps employees understand their own emotions and behaviors but also fosters a culture of respect and understanding.

Visiting a psychologist should be encouraged and normalized by parents, teachers, and HR departments. It's time to remove the stigma surrounding mental health and recognize that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. 

The Road Ahead

There is still a long way to go, but it’s high time we consciously take the first steps. If we want to raise a generation of men who respect women, we must begin by changing the way we teach our sons. It’s not just about telling them what’s right and wrong—it’s about showing them through our actions, our relationships, and the way we treat others. The goal is to create a world where respect for women is the norm, not the exception. And this journey begins at home.

"Boys will be boys," they sigh and grin,  

As if it's nature, not a sin,  

Blaming girls for showing skin,  

But what of the child, pure and thin?  

What of the infants, innocent and small,  

Who knew nothing of this world's cruel call?  

Was their skin too bare, too much at all?  

Or was it power, in the darkest hall?  

And the women in hijab, veiled and still,  

Covered from head to toe, no show of any skin,,  

Did their modesty invite the thrill?  

Or was it violence, cold and chill?  

Old women, withered by time's cruel grace,  

Lines of wisdom etched on their face,  

Did their age provoke this dark embrace?  

Or was it power, again misplaced?  

“Women say no when they mean yes,”  

A dangerous myth that leads to distress,  

A lie that hides the true darkness,  

In a world where safety is anyone’s guess.  

But it’s not the clothes, not the night,  

Not the way she walks, or the light,  

It’s the power, the hate, the twisted sight,  

That turns innocence into fright.  

So let’s not blame the skirts, the skin,  

Let’s not excuse the violence within,  

Let’s stand together, fight and win,  

Until justice and peace begin.

Thanks for reading,

Sharon Lasrado