Germany's boys in crisis: Why schools and society are failing them
Federal Education Minister Karin Prien has raised concerns about a growing crisis among young men in Germany. She warns that without urgent action, the country could face a generation of disaffected boys who feel left behind. The issue spans education, mental health, and social risks—with long-term consequences if ignored.
For years, boys in Germany have struggled in schools. Currently, they make up just 45% of high school graduates but 60% of dropouts. Since 2012, the dropout rate for young men has stayed higher than for young women, with around 5-6% of men leaving school without qualifications in 2024—compared to 3-4% of women. This gap has barely narrowed, leaving boys at a persistent disadvantage.
Teachers' expectations play a role in shaping boys' self-perception. Studies show that educators often overestimate girls' abilities in languages while underestimating boys' skills in maths. Over time, these biases can erode confidence and performance.
Beyond classrooms, social media has become a breeding ground for extremist recruitment. Young men are targeted with emotionally charged messages centred on physical strength, sports, and protein culture. Prien highlights that this vulnerability is worsened by broader social issues: young men face higher suicide rates, poorer health outcomes, and greater involvement in crime and violence.
The minister stresses that fair educational opportunities are essential. She acknowledges parental frustrations over school conditions and notes that regional differences must be addressed in policy-making. Prien also calls for a modern gender equality approach—one that supports both women and men.
In response, the federal government is funding state-level initiatives. The Daycare Quality Development Act provides resources for language assessments, support programmes, and smoother transitions between daycare and school.
Prien's warnings point to a complex challenge. Without targeted interventions, the risks for young men—from educational failure to extremist influence—could deepen. The government's funding aims to address early gaps, but broader policy shifts may be needed to reverse long-standing trends.
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