Attachment Theory & Boys

Boys turn into men, and it's not an easy or a simple process. Mostly because of what is known as "Normative Developmental Trauma." You will be surprised by what you learn how nature and nurture come together to impact men in very different ways than they do women. And you'll learn about a phenomenon known as "Male Relational Dread."

This academic exploration of the mother-child relationship gives particular attention to its specific impact on male children and their emotional development. The issue of nature and nurture is addressed, as is the complex topic of boys and vulnerable emotions, with particular emphasis on guilt, humiliation, and shame; anxiety and depression; and anger and rage.

Dr. Debi Smith, PsyD

Author. Teacher. Coach.

I worked with men, women, couples, and families in Orange, Los Angeles, and Ventura counties in California for 25 years before closing my Clinical Psychology Practice in August 2021. I helped launch numerous Marriage Programs at local churches, training pastors, marriage mentor couples, and mental health professionals who needed help learning to work more effectively with couples. As a mother of three sons, I developed intense interest in and a unique expertise in the Psychology of Men and Marriage. Now living in Central Texas, I am dedicated to teaching and coaching around the world. My Education & Teaching Experience: In case you’re interested in the details … I earned my Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology at MidAmerica Nazarene University, and my Master of Arts (MA) and Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) at Biola University. I also taught courses at both universities, as well as at Azusa Pacific University from 2002 to 2010.