Tender care best for baby boys

Parents should treat baby boys as gently as they would girls,
according to a child and adolescent psychiatrist.

Men who are treated tenderly as young babies are more likely to
succeed in work and relationships. Those who are taught to be tough
are likely to be less confident and more aggressive, Sebastian
Kraemer told a conference of the Royal College of
Psychiatrists.

“If boys are treated in a tough slugs and snails way they
are more likely to become football hooligans than generous, strong,
courageous men.”

He added that newborn baby boys’ development tends to be
slower than that of baby girls, and that it would be better for
parents to be aware of this.

The critical period appeared to be in the first month of life
when the brain is still developing, and this is when parents should
pay extra care.