The notion that men need to form close, emotionally intimate relationships with other men in order to avoid what's perceived as toxic femininity has been gaining traction lately. However, this approach overlooks the fact that every individual is unique and expresses emotions in different ways.
Research by anthropologist Thomas Yarrow suggests that traditional notions of masculinity often prioritize stoicism over emotional expression. This can lead to a phenomenon where men form friendships based on shared activities, such as hobbies or sports, rather than deep conversations about their inner lives.
While it's true that this type of friendship may seem unconventional to those who value open and honest communication, it's essential to recognize that every person has their own way of connecting with others. For Yarrow, the beauty lies in the fact that these friendships are not necessarily about grand displays of emotion but rather a quiet, unspoken understanding between individuals.
The author notes that women often prioritize close relationships built on emotional intimacy, which may seem appealing to those who want men to be more expressive and open. However, this expectation can also create unrealistic standards for men who have been socialized to suppress their emotions.
It's crucial to acknowledge that men are just as capable of forming meaningful connections with others as women do. While their communication style might differ, it doesn't necessarily mean they're less emotional or less invested in the relationships they build.
What's striking about Yarrow's research is the way his subjects demonstrated love and care for one another without explicitly discussing their feelings. They offered support and companionship through actions like sharing cups of tea, cracking jokes, and being present for each other during difficult times.
This nuanced approach highlights that friendships can be just as valuable and meaningful even if they don't follow traditional norms. The author poses an interesting question: does the value of having friends lie solely in their ability to verbalize emotions, or is it enough to know someone cares and is willing to walk alongside them through life's challenges?
Ultimately, there's no one-size-fits-all solution for forming friendships that prioritize emotional intimacy. By acknowledging and appreciating the diversity of human connections, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and accepting environment where everyone feels valued and supported.
Research by anthropologist Thomas Yarrow suggests that traditional notions of masculinity often prioritize stoicism over emotional expression. This can lead to a phenomenon where men form friendships based on shared activities, such as hobbies or sports, rather than deep conversations about their inner lives.
While it's true that this type of friendship may seem unconventional to those who value open and honest communication, it's essential to recognize that every person has their own way of connecting with others. For Yarrow, the beauty lies in the fact that these friendships are not necessarily about grand displays of emotion but rather a quiet, unspoken understanding between individuals.
The author notes that women often prioritize close relationships built on emotional intimacy, which may seem appealing to those who want men to be more expressive and open. However, this expectation can also create unrealistic standards for men who have been socialized to suppress their emotions.
It's crucial to acknowledge that men are just as capable of forming meaningful connections with others as women do. While their communication style might differ, it doesn't necessarily mean they're less emotional or less invested in the relationships they build.
What's striking about Yarrow's research is the way his subjects demonstrated love and care for one another without explicitly discussing their feelings. They offered support and companionship through actions like sharing cups of tea, cracking jokes, and being present for each other during difficult times.
This nuanced approach highlights that friendships can be just as valuable and meaningful even if they don't follow traditional norms. The author poses an interesting question: does the value of having friends lie solely in their ability to verbalize emotions, or is it enough to know someone cares and is willing to walk alongside them through life's challenges?
Ultimately, there's no one-size-fits-all solution for forming friendships that prioritize emotional intimacy. By acknowledging and appreciating the diversity of human connections, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and accepting environment where everyone feels valued and supported.
Meanwhile, research by the Pew Research Center shows 62% of millennials believe men should be just as emotionally expressive as women. 
It's all about finding what works for each individual, you feel? Studies like Yarrow's show us that friendships can be just as meaningful with quiet, unspoken understanding between friends. 
So maybe instead of expecting men to follow traditional norms, we should focus on creating an environment where everyone feels comfortable being themselves? 
you know what really got me thinking about this? how guys like to talk about their feelings but in a super chill way... like they'll just be like "hey, I'm good" or "I'm feeling pretty low today" without getting all emotional about it. and that's actually kinda cool because it shows that men can be just as emotional as women, they just express it differently 
. anyway, the point is we shouldn't expect guys to be all chatty and sappy like girls who love a good talk... just 'cause they don't want to be too "touchy-feely" doesn't mean they're not feeling anything 
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my boyfriend can get super stressed and I'll just sit with him in silence and he'll eventually open up... it's like magic! 
. And what's with the emphasis on emotional intimacy being "women's thing"? Can't we just appreciate people for who they are and how they connect with others, regardless of gender? I mean, I've got friends who aren't super into grand, sappy conversations but still show up when you need 'em, like, to grab a cuppa or something. That's what matters, right? 
. Like, women are already expected to be all emotional and stuff, but now we're supposed to be mad that men don't wanna dive into super deep feelings? It's like we're supposed to forget that men have been socialized to be tough and stoic for centuries 
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. Can't guys just show up, listen, and support each other in their own way? Maybe it's not about grand displays of emotion, but about being present for each other when it really matters 
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which just isn't true. And what about the men who do form close bonds with their guy friends? Do they get an A+ for emotional expression, while everyone else gets a failing grade? 
Come on, let's not make this some kinda drama 
. What if its just a way for the 'experts' to push their own views on us? Like, I get that some dudes might be more reserved, but thats not a bad thing! It sounds like we're being told to change who we are to fit some ideal of what's considered "normal". Idk about you guys, but I think its just gonna make things weird if we all start acting like overly emotional dudes...
I'm all about this new vibe! The idea that men need to form close relationships with other guys is so underrated 
It's cool that research shows guys can be just as emotional and caring without being all about grand displays of feeling