Image courtesy of National Center for Fathering.

Not hugging your sons may damage them pyschologically, National Association of Social Workers member Barbara Murray-Lane said in this article in Connecticut’s Hartford Courant.

“It’s a cultural phenomenon,” said Murray-Lane, MSW, LCSW, who works at the Chester Wellness Center. “Parents feel that if they show too much affection to their son, they’ll pay for it somehow.”

Murray-Lane suggested following the lead of your child. If he feels comfortable getting hugged by you, you should be comfortable with it, too.

Social workers often help young people develop and overcome life’s hurdles. To learn more visit NASW’s “Help Starts Here” Kids & Families Website by clicking here.