Should men be more emotionally expressive? Men being emotional might just be the key to a healthier society but there are many people who disagree. Traditionally, men are taught to be dominant assertive leaders which tends to discourage vulnerability because it is viewed as a more feminine and weak trait.
Those in favor of emotionally expressive men believe that vulnerability can lead to mental health benefits, improved relationships,and it can challenge outdated stereotypes. Studies show that men who struggle with mental health are less likely to seek help. For example https://afsp.org/suicide-statistics/ shows that the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) Data & Statistics Fatal Injury Report reported that men died by suicide approximately four times more than women did. While this statistic could be attributed to numerous different issues, many believe that the negatives surrounding emotionally expressive men play a huge role in the difference between suicide numbers of men & women. Emotional vulnerability is also able to foster deeper connections in personal and professional relationships. People who express their feelings can communicate more efficiently, build trust more effectively, and promote mutual understanding between partners, which are all crucial to ensure healthy relationships. Men can challenge outdated stereotypes and showcase emotional vulnerability which can ultimately help redefine the way men are viewed in society and make it more acceptable for all men to participate in showcasing their emotions.
Those who oppose emotionally expressive men believe that societal instability can ensue when gender norm lines are blurred. Many believe that it is a man’s duty to be strong and emotionally expressive men can be a departure from traditional masculinity which can ultimately lead to confusion about gender roles. Men tend to regulate their emotions through action rather than words. For example,https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/how_men_and_fathers_express_emotions a research paper done by a Michigan State University student says that men and fathers usually express their emotions through body language instead of words. This can be a problem because emotionally vulnerable men show all emotions, even the negatives. Using actions to express anger and annoyance can be problematic which is why many men choose to suppress their emotions. Numerous men could feel very uncomfortable about showing their emotions due to the stigma surrounding it.
Both sides of this debate provide compelling arguments but we want to know what you think ? How can we positively advocate for emotional expression in men while combating the negatives that might ensue ? Feel free to share any thoughts, advice, or stories that might relate to this topic.
