James Barrett, PhD

One of the biggest parts of my practice is teaching young men that they can settle conflicts without resorting to fighting; that they can be a “real man” and not have to respond to a challenge with fists.  For those of you who don’t follow the NHL, 2 weeks ago a player for the Bruins was the victim of a “cheap shot” by a player for the Penguins.  The league did not discipline this player and all week long the talk on Boston sports radio was that the Bruins had no other choice but to avenge their fallen player by fighting a Penguins’ player tonight in the rematch.  Sure enough, not more than a minute into the first period Thorton for the Bruins dropped his gloves and pummeled the player who had injured his teammate while a packed stadium roared their approval.  Now, for all those boys I’m working with, you tell me which message is more powerful?