Fostering Respect and Healthy Masculinity 

Fostering Respect and Healthy Masculinity

At Palm Beach Currumbin, we’re committed to creating a safe, respectful environment for all students regardless of gender or identity.

That includes helping young men move beyond limiting stereotypes and embrace healthy masculinity built on empathy, emotional expression, and mutual respect.

When unhealthy ideas about masculinity go unchallenged, they can impact everyone, girls, women, LGBTQIA+ students, and boys themselves. Promoting emotional wellbeing, kindness, and accountability is essential to preventing harm and fostering genuine belonging.

What parents can do:

• Talk openly about emotions, boundaries, and respect for self and others
• Model healthy relationships where strength includes kindness and compassion
• Encourage empathy and stand against harmful language or behaviour
• Support and diversity by affirming all identities and voices in the conversation
• Listen without judgment to encourage honest conversations
• Highlight a diverse range of role models who lead with integrity and compassion

Support and Resources:

• ReachOut.com – Articles on masculinity, gender, and mental health
• The Man Cave – Content about supporting boys’ emotional growth
• Maggie Dent – Resources for raising boys with heart and respect
• Parent line – Call 1300 30 1300 for confidential parenting advice
• Minus18 – Education and support for LGBTQIA+ youth and allies
• Mission Australia - https://www.missionaustralia.com.au/what-we-do/children-youth-families-and-communities/understanding-young-people

Together, we can build a culture where every student regardless of gender or identity feels safe, seen, and supported.