Understanding Boys and Young Men: A Webinar For Caretakers and Educators

Boys don’t always show emotional distress in ways that adults recognize. It can look like anger, withdrawal, endless gaming sessions, or not wanting to talk right now. Sometimes that’s just adolescence. But sometimes it’s something more. Dr. Katie Hurley, JED’s Vice President of Community Initiatives and author of Breaking the Boy Code: The New Playbook For Raising Resilient Boys, joins Ryan Bunts, Senior Director of High School Programs, to discuss why so many boys and young men struggle to talk about what they’re feeling, and how adults can stay connected without turning every conversation into an interrogation. You’ll learn: – What emotional struggle tends to look like for boys, including the signals adults often overlook – How gaming, influencer culture, and social isolation are reshaping boys’ inner lives – Practical tips for building trust, starting conversations, and staying connected Meet the Panel: – Dr. Katie Hurley, DSW, LCSW, VP, Community Initiatives – Ryan Bunts, Senior Director, High School Programs – Moderated by Tony Walker, Ph.D., Senior Vice President, School Programs and Consulting