So right before our eyes we have seen very recently the perception shift of homeschooling, which was for decades considered even more “elite” than catholic or private schools. To 2023 where anyone who dares homeschooling is “a religious nut”, “depriving their children of a real education”, and on an on. As homeschooling became more prevalent with conservatives it became less of a “gold standard” in education to an “Alex Jones Q anon indoctrination camp”.
Semi related: this all came about because I’m watching old South Park and season 3 episode 12 showed perfectly how “homeschooling” kids were perceived, all intellectual and no social skills.
I've been seeing all those things you just described as about homeschooling since the 90s at the least. Its always been "antisocial wierdo" or "religious zealot."
And having known a few, the social problem isn't always "awkward shyness of a major intellectual" but also just as often "massive ego who thinks he is smarter than literally everyone, despite being a chronic failure."
Because you can bring a kid to groups to get interaction and teamworking skills, but you can't undo the horrible coddling effect that is having your Mom's attention all day, every day rarely divided. Exacerbated by the lack of hazing, bullying and other guy to guy rituals that help us shed our worst elements.
Traditionally lots of siblings will fix that problem, especially if there are 3 or more boys. But yeah, 1-2 child homes homeschooling presents social problems, and that is more common nowadays.