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Boys will be boys -

First of all, men learn what masculinity looks like from childhood. Boys’ aggressive behavior is often excused with phrases like “boys will be boys.” They’re less rarely called out.

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Gender roles -

They may also be pressured to behave in a certain way because they are boys. They may be insulted or even physically assaulted for not behaving tough or like how they’re “supposed to.”

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Stereotypes harm -

From here, boys will go along with stereotypical male roles, even if they don’t agree with them or push back. The latter is more difficult, risky, and even dangerous.

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Challenge it -

We can address the qualities and value systems that oppose environments where healthy masculinity can grow by calling people out on disrespect or when they uphold masculine stereotypes.

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Speaking up -

We can all encourage men to show a wider range of emotions as opposed to encouraging them to be the ‘stiff upper lip’ type.

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Ignoring feelings leads to inward and outward problems -

Silence fuels mental health issues, abuse, and more.

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Encouragement -

Encouraging men to demonstrate nurturing, compassionate, and caring behavior towards themselves and those around them is beneficial.

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Foster a supportive environment -

Attempting to create a space where it’s acceptable and comfortable for men to talk about their feelings should be of primary concern.

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Checking in -

If you suspect that a man is hurting emotionally and suffering silently, check in on him and offer support rather than assuming he won’t want to talk about it.

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It's up to the person to make the change -

If you are a man, ask for help and say something. This is probably the most important part of the entire equation. The environment can be right, others can be there to support, but it’s up to the person themselves to share and express themselves.

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Support groups -

If this is extremely difficult or even seems impossible, it might be a good idea to join a support group that deals with men’s issues.

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Professional help -

If you are a man and are still finding it impossible to express yourself in an emotional capacity, manage stress, or regularly experience depression and anxiety, then it might be useful to see a counselor.

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CBT -

A common and extremely useful form of psychological treatment is CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), which is effective in treating a wide range of issues.

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There are many ways to be a man -

There is a world of different ways to be a man. Acknowledging this provides an opportunity for all genders to be respected for who they are.

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Practicing masculinity -

Men can practice healthy masculinity in many ways, and in doing so they can serve as a positive role model for others.

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Showing emotional vulnerability -

For example, a father may show emotional vulnerability around his son not just because dad needs to be vulnerable now and again, but also because it sets an example for the young boy.

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The kinds of emotions to promote expressing -

The kinds of emotions we should promote boys to express are sadness, shame, kindness, and tenderness. These are the kinds of emotions that harmful stereotypes label as unfitting.

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Healthy masculine values -

If you are a man, then one way of developing healthy masculine values is through communicating well (active listening, etc.) and through practicing non-judgmental support. Men should work to become comfortable in emotionally-nurturing roles. Showing affection to children is not an “unmanly” thing to do.

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Childcare -

Besides men (and everyone else) encouraging healthy masculinity of themselves and other adult men, it should be primary to promote it to children and young boys, too. It’s always easier to instill values in someone at a younger age.

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Role playing -

Young people should be introduced to a range of toys, including those which may be considered gender-neutral or “for girls.” This encourages the disregard of gender stereotypes.

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Fashion is a great outlet -

Encouraging young men to experiment with fashion and self-expression can be another tool for challenging gender stereotypes that make men feel under pressure to look a certain way. 

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Consent -

Young men should be taught clearly that they have the right to say "no" to being touched and should always ask another person before touching them.

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Beware of false idols -

We should all be careful of who we look up to. Young men should be exposed to and be encouraged to follow media that show men (and women, and everyone else) challenging gender norms in their work, interests, or expression.

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Toxic masculinity breeds serious issues over time -

What might look like self-reliance, dominance, competitiveness, and toughness can lead to issues like cardiovascular problems, violence, incarceration, and suicidal inclinations.

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Some harmful stereotypes -

Some stereotypes that we should be aware of are that men should be the sole breadwinner and provide for their families and be tough, physically strong, and capable of handling pain.

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Hiding feelings -

Another huge issue is men being encouraged to avoid femininity and feminine activities, leading them to conceal their emotions and never show feelings.

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It should be everyone's concern -

Although it is primarily the responsibility of men to challenge stereotypes and encourage healthy masculine behavior, everyone can and should make it their responsibility.

Sources: (UMatter)

See also: That's what she said: when female celebs speak out about feminism

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