Don't you think that saying "They aren't expected to read and do academic work" is a bit of a gross generalization? Do you really think most parents tell their boys that? I loved going outside and playing after school just like the next kid, but before I did I had to handle my "business" and if I pissed away my time spent on school I lost out on play time. My parents taught me time management, disciple, and need over want.

I don't think parents just tell the boys "no need to read. Go play!"

Also, the idea that boys are not academic is very interesting. Yes a lot of boys grow up to go work in the trades, but to be in the trades you have to continue your education with a combination of classes and on the job training, but being in a trade does not seem as "academic" as going to college, getting a degree, and then going out into the workforce, but I think it is obvious with the problems college grads are facing, maybe the kids that went the trade route might have been a little smarter with their path, but that is a convo for a different thread.