Written for parents, this book discusses the socialization of boys into men. The book takes the perspective that socialization should not lead to an exclusive and rigid masculinization. The books is divided into 5 sections, discussing: (1) the need for power as it affects boys and men; (2) the development of boys and the unseen messages provided by society during this development; (3) the mother-son relationship; (4) how fathers influence sons; and (5) the power of peers. Section 1 talks about the negative emotional and social consequences faced by males as they seek power. Section 2 discusses perspectives on socialization. Section 3 discusses the influence mothers have, and are apt to lose, on sons. Section 4 discusses the effects on boys of good, bad, and absent parenting on the part of fathers. Section 5 discusses the hierarchical structure of boys' peer groups and its effects on boys' social relations. (Contains 64 references.) (JW)