Introduction
Throughout the history of human civilization, mythology has played a significant part in shaping society’s perspective of various aspects of life, including gender roles and sexuality. Different societies had their own gods and goddesses who represented certain attributes reflecting the societal norms of that era. Today, we take a closer look at the influence of these mythological narratives on gender expectations and how it affects the psychological well-being of men.
Description of Gender Expectations and Their Impact on the Psychological Health of Men
The salient feature of mythology, irrespective of the culture or epoch it belongs to, is that it mirrors the society that gives birth to it. The gender expectations outlined in these myths display the ideal picture of how men and women were supposed to behave.
Hypermasculinity and Stoicism
Many mythologies have portrayed men as muscular, brave, and unbreakable leaders, and this can play a part in the pressures men face today to embody stoicism and dismiss their own emotional needs. This can lead to mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, as men may feel as though they can’t express their feelings or seek help.
Inferiority Complex
In various cultures, men were depicted as the superior gender in mythologies which can lead to an unhealthy power dynamic in societies. Men may feel pressured to secure a position of power and superiority, resulting in feelings of inadequacy and an inferiority complex. There is a palpable link between this and mental health problems in men, which can be harmful if left unchecked.
Examples of How Gender Roles Can Impact Men’s Lives
Formulated gender roles often serve as a roadmap which shapes an individual’s actions, thoughts, and emotions. Men may experience pressure to conform to the ‘ideal’ masculinity presented by mythology and society. For instance, they may feel obligated to pursue certain ‘masculine’ occupations even if it doesn’t suit their passion. They may also shy away from showing emotions or vulnerability to avoid being perceived as weak, which contradicts the mythological depiction of men.
Tips for Improving Psychological Health Considering Gender Roles
Re-evaluating current societal expectations for men, rooted in ancient mythologies, can be a first step towards improving men’s mental health. There are various ways to go about this:
Talking about emotions
Eliminating the stigma around discussing emotions can help men feel more comfortable expressing themselves, leading to better emotional health and stronger relationships.
Therapy and counseling
Professional mental health services can provide valuable insights and coping strategies to men dealing with the pressure of conforming to societal and mythological ideals.
Challenging stereotypical gender roles
By debunking myths and questioning the traditional gender roles, society can help mitigate the negative impacts these norms can have, and foster a more holistic view of masculinity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, although mythology has played a significant role in shaping gender expectations, it’s crucial to understand the negative impacts these expectations can have on men’s mental health. Constantly challenging and reshaping these narratives can help foster a more inclusive idea of manhood, contributing to the overall improvement of men’s psychological well-being.
