Bayless Guys Group: Discussing Today's Issues of Masculinity
by Amela Turnadzic
January 28, 2010
Last year Bayless High School introduced a new program for 11th and 12th grade males. Guys’ Group is an eight week program sponsored by Safe Connections. Safe connection’s slogan is “where violence ends and healthy relationships begin.” Their slogan explains the goals of guys group. The group focuses on encouraging young men to begin discussing masculinity issues. They talk about vulnerability, the media’s influence on violent behavior and peer pressure. The boys analyze their own attitudes, beliefs and behaviors relating to masculinity. Along with learning how to cope with the problems in today’s society, the boys are encouraged to develop trust and open communication with others.
John Capuano, Safe Connections facilitator, approached Bayless counselors Mrs. Beth Neighbors (counselor for students M-Z) and Ms. Chris Pesti (counselor for students A-M), with the idea of starting a guys group at our school. “I believe the Guys’ Group is beneficial for Bayless students because it gives young men an opportunity to speak with a male counselor,” said Neighbors.
Guys’ Group is made up of mainly juniors and a couple of sophomores. The group meets every Thursday during advisory and first lunch. They eat lunch together in a Bayless classroom and have discussions on a variety of topics of interest to the boys. Last years group of guys, who are currently seniors, meet the first Friday of every month and share their thoughts.
“Guys’ group is a really awesome thing to be a part of. I’m really glad I became a part of it,” said senior Drew Smith.
