Contrary to common assumptions, baby boys are often observed to cry and fuss more than baby girls. This difference isn't due to inherent emotional differences but rather stems from societal expectations and how boys are raised to express their emotions differently as they grow older.
Early Life Emotional Expression
Multiple sources confirm that in infancy, boys and girls display similar levels of emotionality. However, it's frequently reported that baby boys cry more. Scientific American and other studies support this observation. The article notes that "Indeed, when it comes to emotionality, boys and girls differ much less in early life; if anything, baby boys are known to cry and fuss more than baby girls."
Societal Influences on Crying
While crying frequency might be comparable in infancy, societal expectations greatly influence how boys and girls express their emotions as they mature. The article from The Guardian highlights that "Before the age of 12, boys and girls cry as frequently as each other, but after 12, boys cry four times less than girls." This shift is a result of cultural conditioning, where boys are often discouraged from openly expressing sadness or vulnerability. The Guardian
This difference is also emphasized by articles discussing how boys are raised differently, focusing on the impact of stress and emotional regulation. First Five Years highlights the need for different parenting approaches for boys given their different responses to stress.
Summary
In conclusion, while early research suggests baby boys may cry more than baby girls, this isn't a definitive indicator of inherent emotional differences. Cultural norms and societal expectations significantly impact emotional expression as children develop.
