Sir, - Dr Tom Inglis writes approvingly of programmes such as Exploring Masculinities because, as he says, "they help young adult males to reflect critically on the various constructions of male identity. . .and thus be in a better position to construct their own identities".
There are a number of illusions here that need to be exposed: 1. That identity is learned or "constructed", and can therefore be unlearned or "reconstructed". Instead, identity is brought about by successive identifications with real people throughout childhood and adolescence. Identity runs deep and the notion that we can create our own identities beyond anything but the most superficial appearances is absurd.
2. That young males will sit around in a classroom and discuss their identities. Nothing could be further from adolescent male psychology, which demands privacy and extroversion.
3. That alleged male violence can be altered or ameliorated through learning experiences, role-playing and the like, when young boys who later become violent have overwhelmingly identified with violent fathers through critical periods in their lives. - Yours, etc.,
Rob Weatherill, (Teacher and psychotherapist), Crosthwaite Park East, Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin.