Boys in high school are much more likely to be involved with crimes and violence on school property than are girls. In general, African American and Latino boys are more likely than other boys to be involved with crime and violence on school property. Boys are seriously underdiagnosed for depression.
Studies also show that traditionally macho attitudes are linked to greater depression.
Males, in general, have limited definitions of masculinity available to them. This definition is usually confined to such behaviors as competition, repression of fear and emotions, and strength, both physically and emotionally. Boys of color and those of lower economic status tend to encounter fewer alternatives for defining their masculinity than do white boys and those of higher economic status. Adolescent boys, in particular, see female behavior as non-acceptable. Eighth grade boys and girls use substances at about the same rate.