(4 minutes read time)
Raising children in today’s world involves guiding them to understand and embrace equality, while recognising and addressing harmful societal norms. Two key concepts in this journey are feminism and toxic masculinity. Understanding these terms can help mothers nurture both sons and daughters into empathetic, respectful, and well-rounded individuals.
Understanding Feminism
Understanding fairness and kindness between boys and girls is important for everyone. Let’s explore two ideas: feminism and toxic masculinity, in a way that’s easy to understand.
What Is Feminism?
Feminism is the belief that everyone should be treated equally, no matter if they are a boy or a girl. It means that both boys and girls should have the same opportunities, rights, and respect. For example, if a girl wants to play football or become a scientist, she should be encouraged to do so, just like a boy would. Similarly, if a boy wants to dance or become a nurse, he should be supported in the same way. Feminism teaches us that everyone can follow their dreams, regardless of their gender.
What Is Toxic Masculinity?
Toxic masculinity refers to harmful ideas about how boys and men should behave. Some people believe that boys have to be tough, never show their feelings, and always be in charge. These ideas can hurt boys because they might feel they can’t express themselves or ask for help when they need it. It’s important to understand that it’s okay for boys to have feelings, to be kind, and to share responsibilities. Being strong doesn’t mean hiding emotions or acting tough all the time.
Being fair as a parent
The phrase “boys will be boys” has often been used to excuse behaviours in boys that are rough or aggressive, suggesting such actions are natural and unavoidable. However, this mindset can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and discourage boys from expressing a full range of emotions. More importantly it encourages boys not to respect girls. Mothers play a pivotal role in challenging these notions by fostering environments where empathy, respect, and emotional openness are valued. By actively addressing and guiding their sons away from toxic behaviours, mothers can help dismantle the societal norms that contribute to toxic masculinity, promoting healthier expressions of masculinity and more equitable interactions among all genders.
Are you asking for fairness for yourself?
When mothers accept abusive behaviour from their partners or sons, it can create a harmful environment that affects the entire family. Enduring such abuse may inadvertently signal to children that such behaviour is acceptable, perpetuating a cycle of mistreatment and emotional distress. It’s crucial for mothers to recognise the importance of setting healthy boundaries and seeking support to address abusive dynamics. By prioritising their well-being and demonstrating self-respect, mothers not only protect themselves but also teach their children valuable lessons about respect, empathy, and the importance of maintaining healthy relationships.
How Can We Support Each Other?
• Encourage Everyone: Support your friends and family in doing what they love, no matter if they’re a boy or a girl.
• Share Feelings: It’s okay to talk about your emotions. Sharing helps us understand each other better.
• Be Kind and Fair: Treat everyone with respect and fairness. Stand up against unfair treatment when you see it.
By understanding and practicing these ideas, we can create a world where everyone feels valued and free to be themselves.
Feminism Makes the World Better
When we treat each other fairly, everyone wins. Feminism helps boys and girls feel free to be themselves, share their feelings, and follow their dreams. So next time someone talks about feminism, you can say, “That just means we want things to be fair for everyone!”
And that’s a pretty awesome thing to stand up for!
How counselling can help
Are you struggling to navigate the changes in society, understanding what women want? Did you once have a relationship that worked and now it doesn’t? Do parents confuse you with their outdated beliefs and behaviour? We can work it out together. Counselling can help your life change from feeling alone with your troubles to realising your feelings are real and that they matter. I want to help you in your relationships so that you can make it work or if it has to end, then you will be sure it is the best outcome for you that it does. I want to help men and women get what they deserve in a relationship. I want to end toxic masculinity for men and women because no one benefits from it and I want to help my clients feel safe and empowered to live the life they want as the true person they are and to like who they are no matter what.
I specialise in anxiety, stress and trauma. By coming for counselling, you can learn how to be the person you want to be and create the life you dream of. My service is here to help you heal and guide you every step of the way toward a better, brighter future.
How to book a session
Click here and book a free initial consultation with me today. Read what people are saying about working with me in counselling here. I hold a private, confidential space for you. I’m looking forward to meeting you and hearing you very soon. Best wishes, Karen.
Disclaimer: I am a UK qualified person centred counsellor specialising in anxiety and trauma within the context of counselling. I write from my experiences and from my client work in counselling. My work is dependent on the therapeutic relationship and the meeting of two minds. It is a humbling experience and that is all part of the healing process that I witness every day. It is the best job in the world. This is not an emergency service. If you need to speak to someone urgently outside of my sessions, please call the Samaritans on 116 123 (24/7 confidential helpline in the UK).