Final answer:
The higher rate of injuries and deaths among boys compared to girls is often attributed to societal expectations of masculine aggressiveness, forming part of the 'boys will be boys' mentality. This cultural script can lead to riskier behaviors, such as increased aggressive actions, resulting in a disparity in health outcomes between genders.
Step-by-step explanation:
The saying “boys will be boys” is often invoked to explain why injuries and deaths are higher among boys than girls. This phrase is used to justify aggressive behavior by boys and young men, which can lead to head and traumatic brain injuries, among other issues.
The societal expectation that boys will be aggressive can lead to riskier behaviors and consequently a higher rate of injury. This expectation is a part of a larger cultural script for masculinity that society prescribes. Factors such as higher levels of freedom to break rules, socialization techniques that reinforce competing over collaborating, and societal reinforcement of aggression as part of the masculine identity, all contribute to this disparity.
Moreover, there are documented differences in the way gender roles are enforced, which can influence behavior and the resulting safety outcomes. For example, studies have shown that when boys are tasked with work traditionally considered feminine, they exhibit less aggressive behavior. In contrast, disorders of the skeletal system and injuries like head injuries, which lead to disability and death, are highly prevalent among boys who engage in aggressive behavior.
Understanding these gender norms and how they impact behavior can lead to better interventions and educational efforts to promote safer behaviors among boys and young men, thereby reducing the higher rates of injuries and deaths in this group.