MÁIRTÍN MAC AN GHAILL (1994) explains that it is the decline in traditional working-class jobs which has contributed to boys' underachievement. They lack motivation and ambition because of their limited prospects - this creates a 'fatalistic' culture. The subsequent impact on the male as a breadwinner has led to a 'crisis in masculinity' - an identity crisis for men who feel insecure about their masculinity. This means that boys will try and achieve a positive self-image through 'laddish' behaviour and aggressive, anti-school attitudes.
