Motherhood: Mom-Teenage Son Conversations that Matter(1)

What It Really Means to Be a Man

Hello Mothers!

Our teenage boys are at that stage where their shoulders begin to broaden, their voices deepen, their facial hair starts to grow, and they begin to feel like men. This is also the stage where people start expecting more from them. They’ll begin to hear phrases like, “Man up,” “Be a man,” or “Act like a man.” But what do those words really mean?

The truth is, our boys are growing up in a world that’s redefining manhood, and not in the right direction. Society tells them that being a man means being tough, emotionless, dominant—even careless. And if we don’t correct that early and intentionally teach them what real manhood looks like, the world will shape their beliefs for them.

Also Read: Motherhood: Mom-Teenage Daughter Conversations that matter(1)

As mothers, we must teach our sons that being a man has nothing to do with being hard, silent, or pretending like nothing bothers them. It’s not about being the loudest in the room, having six-pack abs, chasing girls for approval, or measuring worth by how many girls like or chase after them.

We must show them that being a man is about something much deeper — it starts in the heart. It’s about honor — doing what’s right even when no one’s watching. It’s about responsibility — owning their actions instead of blaming others. It’s about respect — for themselves, for women, for authority, and for God. It’s about standing firm in truth, protecting the weak, and admitting when they’re wrong.

Manhood has everything to do with how they carry themselves, how they treat others, and how they walk with God. Real men don’t use their strength to impress or control. They use it to protect, build, love, and lead — and they do it with love.

Jesus is our perfect example. He was bold, but gentle. Powerful, yet compassionate. He cried. He served. He confronted injustice. And still, He never compromised who He was. That’s the kind of man I want my son to grow into. And that means I have to model it, speak it, and pray it over him constantly.

Mothers, we don’t leave this to the culture, school, or even the church alone. We are their first teachers. So, start the conversations now. Tell your son what real strength looks like. And remind him — he doesn’t have to act tough to be strong.

So, what kind of man do you want your boy to become? Kindly share.

Bye!