Feminism has made immense progress toward gender equality over the past decades. But this change has also come with unintended consequences for men’s well-being. Why exactly are men suffering in the wake of feminism’s advances? The reasons are nuanced. Here are 15 ways men face new challenges navigating their evolving roles in society:
1. Loss of Traditional Privilege
As women gain power, some men feel they are losing long-held economic and social advantages. Losing entitlement to higher status and authority can fuel resentment. Men grapple with transferring historically male privileges to women, like automatic respect in the workplace and public life. Some men cling to outdated hierarchies.
2. Confusion Around Changing Expectations
Rapidly changing gender norms have left many men confused about how they’re expected to act. Men struggle to balance retaining virtues of the “strong silent type” while also expressing more emotion. Shifting social codes provoke uncertainty about their place in relationships, families, and communities.
