
The Men Also Matter Programme aims to develop a positive value system and character traits to help young men become more responsible, more caring, and more compassionate husbands, partners, fathers, sons, and citizens.
The Programme is still in development. So far, two components are ready for implementation. The first is a series of workshops using the much acclaimed “Heartline” films to facilitate discussions about positive values. The topics addressed include Acceptance, Forgiveness, Self-control, Compassion, Responsibility, Perseverance, Honesty, and Second Chances.
The second is a character-building workshop using the extensively researched framework created by the Values Action Institute (VIA) on Character, based on the theory of virtue ethics and the idea that character is comprised of certain virtues and strengths that can be intentionally nurtured.
Recent research by Matthew Lickona and Thomas Davidson suggests that it is important to recognise both performance character and moral character:
“Performance character is a mastery orientation. It consists of those qualities—such as effort, diligence, perseverance, a strong work ethic, a positive attitude, ingenuity, and self-discipline— needed to realize one’s potential for excellence in academics, co-curricular activities, the workplace, or any other area of endeavour.
Moral character is a relational orientation. It consists of those qualities—such as integrity, justice, caring, and respect— needed for successful interpersonal relationships and ethical behaviour. Respect includes self-respect; we have obligations to ourselves—to respect our own rights, worth, and dignity, for example—as well as to others”. (Lickona and Davidson, 2005).
The 24 Character Strengths identified by VIA are detailed in the image below:
