For decades, societal norms have dictated what it means to be a man. Older men who worked hard in post-World War II times often bottled up their emotions, particularly fear, sadness, and disappointment. This lack of emotional expression led to physical tolls, such as high blood pressure and unexplained back problems.
The narrator’s father was no exception. He worked long hours in a factory without showing any emotion, even after being passed over for a promotion. The workplace mirrored this behavior, making it difficult for men to express their feelings openly.
However, the effects of this masculinity are real. Men who followed these norms often become emotionally drained and struggle with relationships and career growth. But, emotional literacy can be learned at any age. By recognizing and naming emotions beyond “angry” or “tired,” men can break free from old masculine norms and improve their well-being.
This shift in approach starts with internal recognition and self-awareness. Pausing to ask what’s under the anger – fear, hurt, disappointment – is a simple yet effective step towards healthier emotional expression. As young men adopt this new mindset, they create a path for future generations to benefit from. By embracing emotional literacy, men can repair family and social ties shaped by long-standing silence and improve their overall well-being.
Source: https://www.dailynewsandmore.com/according-to-psychology-the-silent-anger-many-aging-men-harbor-isnt-resentment-but-the-buildup-of-years-when-showing-weakness-would-have-cost-them-everything-their-power-their-relat