The stages of life for a male can be divided into several chapters, each characterised by physical, social, and emotional changes.
However, transitions through life are relative, depending on ancestry, ethnicity, family support structures, health, and the quality of life that a man has lived thus far.
A fifteen-year old boy might already be a father raising a child of his own, while a man of 90 whose friends have long died, might still be out running marathons.
For that reason, keep in mind that suggested ages and stages are just a guide. It is extremely important that boys and men feel zero obligation to comply with society's generalised concepts.
Boyhood
This stage roughly occupies the first decade of life. During this time, boys remain quite dependent on their parents for survival and support.
They grow physically throughout, and begin to develop personalities and interests. They often form close friendships with other boys and begin to explore their own identities.
Tween Boys
At the end of boyhood, for perhaps a few months or a year, boys go through a noticeable physical and mental change signalling that puberty is not far away.
Their faces are still round with the adorable beauty of a child, and some may begin sprouting soft secondary hair on their lip, belly, and under arms. They are still children though, and usually happy to remain dependent on their parents.
Adolescence
Adolescence, or puberty, encompasses the teenage years and is marked by significant physical, emotional, and social changes.
Boys experience rapid physical growth, including the development of secondary sexual characteristics such as facial hair, voice deepening, and bone and muscle growth.
This rapid growth can be sporadic and out of sync, leading to painful growing pains.
Meanwhile, boys' faces become more angular or gaunt as their jaws and teeth expand and hyaluronic acid production peaks ahead of its rapid decline.
The identities they've developed thus far, compounded by those of their nearest friends whose validation means everything, begin to transform into a strong set of values and opinions.
Emotionally, they experience mood swings and increased aggression.
Socially, they become more interested in romantic relationships and begin to explore their sexuality.
Early Adulthood
Adulthood typically begins during late teens or early twenties, and this, its earliest phase, extends into the thirties.
This period is characterised by increased independence, career development, and personal growth.
Men in this stage of life tend to enter into committed relationships and start families. They may also pursue advanced education and establish themselves in their careers.
Typically, men reach peak physical maturity in their late twenties.
Middle Age
Middle-age generally begins in the late thirties and extends into the fifties. This period is characterised by increased responsibilities.
Men may experience physical changes such as a decrease in muscle mass, thinning hair, and a slowing metabolism.
Emotionally, they may begin to reflect on their lives, and question their choices. Invariably, they question their worth as a man.
This self-evaluation process is often stereotyped and dismissed as a midlife crisis.
Some men will flourish from this experience, making changes that greatly offset the future effects of aging, while others will flounder.
It is the latter group who are most at risk of developing new addictions, depression, and suicide.
For both men and women, middle age is arguably the most challenging of all of life's stages.
Late Adulthood
This stage begins in the sixties and extends into the seventies and beyond.
Nowadays, people might argue quite reasonably that 60 is the new 40, especially for those who re-adjusted their lifestyles in middle age.
For the most part though, this period is eventually characterised by retirement, declining health, and the loss of loved ones.
Men may experience physical changes such as decreased mobility and cognitive decline.
Emotionally, they may experience a sense of loss and grief as they reflect upon their lives.
Old Age
This life stage typically begins in the eighties or nineties and is marked by increasing frailty and dependence on others. Men may experience physical and cognitive decline and require assistance with daily activities.
Emotionally, they may experience a sense of acceptance and reflection on their lives as they prepare for the end of their life.
Summary
Overall, the stages of life for males are characterised by significant physical, emotional, and social changes that impact their lives in different ways.
By understanding these stages, men can better navigate the challenges and opportunities that come with each transition.