Young Men Are Falling Further Behind Young Women in Employment Education and Training

2nd March 2025

Recent reports indicate that young men in the NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) group are falling behind young women in several areas. A report by the Centre for Social Justice highlights that since the pandemic, the number of males aged 16 to 24 in the NEET category has increased by 40%, compared to just 7% for females.

Additionally, young men make up a larger proportion of the NEET group, with 14.4% of young men classified as NEET compared to 12.3% of young women.

This disparity is attributed to various factors, including the decline of traditionally male-dominated industries, challenges in the education system, and mental health issues disproportionately affecting young men.

The gender disparity in NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) statistics is influenced by several factors:

Economic Shifts: The decline of traditionally male-dominated industries, such as manufacturing and construction, has disproportionately affected young men. These sectors often provided accessible employment opportunities for those without higher education.

Educational Challenges: Boys are more likely to underperform in school compared to girls, leading to lower qualifications and fewer opportunities in the job market.

Mental Health Issues: Young men face higher rates of mental health challenges, such as anxiety and depression, which can hinder their ability to engage in education or employment.

Social Expectations: Societal norms and expectations may discourage young men from seeking help or pursuing certain career paths, further limiting their options.

Regional Disparities: In some areas, a lack of local job opportunities or training programs exacerbates the problem, particularly for young men who may be less willing to relocate.

Policy Gaps: Support systems and interventions may not be as effectively targeted toward young men, leaving them without the necessary resources to transition into education or employment.

These factors often interact, creating a complex web of challenges that contribute to the disparity. Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach, including targeted education programs, mental health support, and policies aimed at creating equitable opportunities.

Boys face several unique educational challenges that contribute to their underachievement in school:

Behavioural Expectations: Boys are more likely to be disciplined for disruptive behaviour, which can lead to negative perceptions of school and lower engagement.

Learning Disabilities: Boys are diagnosed with learning disabilities, such as ADHD, at higher rates than girls. This can affect their ability to focus and succeed academically.

Reading and Writing Skills: Boys often lag behind girls in literacy skills, which are foundational for success in many subjects.

Stereotypes and Social Pressures: Societal expectations may discourage boys from excelling in school, as academic success is sometimes perceived as "uncool".

Dropout Rates: Boys are more likely to drop out of school, particularly during transitions between educational stages, such as from primary to secondary school.

Mental Health: Boys may struggle with mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression, which can go unaddressed due to stigma around seeking help.

These challenges often intersect, creating a cycle of disengagement and underachievement. Addressing these issues requires tailored interventions, such as mentorship programs, inclusive teaching strategies, and mental health support.

The long-term effects of the educational challenges boys face can extend well into adulthood, shaping their personal, professional, and social lives. Some of these effects include:

Lower Educational Attainment: Boys who struggle academically are less likely to pursue higher education, which can limit career opportunities and earning potential over time.

Employment Challenges: Poor academic performance can lead to fewer qualifications, making it harder to secure stable and well-paying jobs. This is especially pronounced in today's knowledge-based economy.

Economic Inequality: Without access to education or skilled employment, boys who underachieve in school may experience financial instability or become trapped in low-paying, insecure jobs.

Mental Health Struggles: Academic underachievement and the associated stress can contribute to long-term mental health issues, such as depression or low self-esteem. In some cases, this can lead to social isolation or difficulty forming relationships.

Involvement in Risky Behaviours: Some boys who disengage from school may be more likely to engage in risky or antisocial behaviours, which can have further negative consequences for their lives.

Reduced Civic Engagement: Limited education and social challenges can decrease participation in civic activities, such as voting or community involvement, reducing their influence on societal decisions.

Addressing these challenges early on is crucial to preventing their lasting impact. Interventions in education, mental health support, and job training can help break this cycle and provide boys with a more promising future. It's a complex issue, but every step toward improvement counts.

Read the ONS report HERE

Read a a big Issue article on the topic HERE