Over the years, researchers have looked at the variety of ways in which parents, teachers and strangers respond differently to boys and girls. Indeed, for many years, the populace was more concerned about girls because girls tend to struggle with more internalizing problems like depression, anxiety, and eating disorders (particularly around the transition to adolescence). And, many girls tend to drop out of more difficult math and science courses in middle school, high school, and college, often "tracking" themselves out of competitive high paying jobs after graduation. The books Reviving Ophelia by Mary Pipher and Failing at Fairness by Myra and David Sadker.

Recently, however, the tenor of the conversation has changed and many experts are concerned that boys may be falling behind at this time. A number of laws, including Title IX made certain accommodations for girls and women, but some worry that it may have been at the expense of boys. Thus, the focus of attention has turned to boys. Books Boys Adrift by Leonard Sax and Raising Cain by Kindlon and Thomson touch upon some of the dynamics you asked about above.

The bottom line is that a child's emotional and behavioral well-being is extremely complex. Genetics clearly intersects with environmental conditions, such as the way in which people respond to a child (based upon their gender). There are many factors in the environment that influence a child. You might want to start with some of the books I listed to begin exploring the impact of gender on boys...and girls.

Warm regards,

Laura Kauffman, Ph.D.
Licensed Child Psychologist
JustAsk Expert
http://www.drlaurakauffman.com/