Boys are taught to repress emotions from "summary" of The Will to Change by bell hooks
In our society, from a very young age, boys are taught that expressing emotions is a sign of weakness. They are told to "man up" or "be a man" whenever they show vulnerability or sensitivity. This conditioning starts early, often before boys even have a chance to understand what emotions are or how to express them. Boys are discouraged from crying, from showing fear or sadness. They are taught that real men don't let their emotions show, that they should be strong and stoic at all times. This denial of emotional expression cuts boys off from a vital part of themselves, leading to a sense of disconnection and alienation. This repression of emotions has far-reaching consequences. It can result in a lack of empathy, an inability to form deep and meaningful connections with others. It can lead to violence, as boys act out their frustration and anger in destructive ways. It can also contribute to mental health issues, as the emotions that are suppressed find other, often harmful, outlets. This societal pressure to conform to a narrow definition of masculinity hurts boys and men, forcing them to deny a fundamental part of who they are. It perpetuates a cycle of toxic masculinity, where men are expected to be dominant, aggressive, and unfeeling. It is a system that harms everyone involved, reinforcing harmful gender stereotypes and limiting the full range of human emotion and expression. To break free from this cycle, we must challenge the idea that emotions are a sign of weakness, that vulnerability is something to be ashamed of. We must create spaces where boys and men feel safe to express themselves fully, without fear of judgment or ridicule. Only then can we begin to heal the wounds caused by this toxic masculinity, and create a more compassionate and understanding world for all.
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