Fear breeds worry. In the Bible Abrahams biggest weakness was fear. And God used it in a profound and positive way. Rebuke the spirit of fear that is robbing him of joy, and stressing his life. Check out Maslow's Heirarchy of Needs online, and see what need of his, that is not being met sufficiently. You could also understand his unique sensitive temperement by going to keirsey.com. Who cares what others think. If he values honesty in himself and others, and understands what this is, then he wont care much about what others think of him. A great book for you and him is by Hal Urban titled, Lifes Greatest Lessons 20 things that matter. It is an efficient, bottom line, useful, easy to read book to help him understand the meaning of, and the actions required for true simple success and happiness. Love, another mom of many boys. Lord help us!