What Every Parent Needs to Know About Raising Boys in 2026 with Dr Justin Coulson

What does it really mean to raise good men in today’s world?

In this important and timely conversation, psychologist, author and parenting expert Dr Justin Coulson joins Osher Günsberg to explore the challenges of raising boys in an age of social media, online influencers and increasingly distorted ideas about masculinity. From the impact of smartphones and the pursuit of online status to the troubling messages boys are exposed to about women, relationships and pornography, Justin explains why parents need to pay closer attention to what their sons are seeing, hearing and learning online — and how those influences can shape their behaviour.

Justin also shares practical ways to help boys develop empathy, self-control, confidence and a strong moral compass. He explains why healthy masculinity is about using strength to make others feel safer and stronger, why connection matters more than constant correction, and how parents can create opportunities for meaningful conversations about respect, consent and responsibility. They also explore the importance of positive male role models, helping boys find purpose through meaningful challenges, and preparing teenagers to make better decisions when faced with peer pressure.

If you’re raising boys, navigating the teenage years or wondering how we can help the next generation of men grow into kind, respectful and capable adults, this is a conversation worth having.

LINKS

Justin's book 'Boys: Building strong young men from the inside out' is out now Follow Justin on Instagram More from Justin Coulson Sign up to the Better Than Yesterday newsletter Watch episodes of Better Than Yesterday on YouTube Watch full stories recorded live at Story Club on YouTube Listen to the Story Club podcast Get tickets for our next Story Club show Get Osher's latest books here Send a pic of what you're looking at to sendosheremail@gmail.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.