The Mask You Live In - The Representation Project

The Mask You Live In - The Representation Project

Research shows that compared to girls, boys in the U.S. are more likely to be diagnosed with a behavior disorder, prescribed stimulant medications, fail out of school, binge drink, commit a violent crime, and/or take their own lives.

therepresentationproject.org

Recently watched this documentary on Netflix and found it really insightful. It focuses on how strict gender "norms" harm boys and men, distancing them from their emotional experiences. It reminded me of how important it is to allow men and boys to show and value their feelings, and not try to force them into a toxic prescription of manhood. I spend a lot of time babysitting my 3-year-old nephew, and this documentary inspired me to be more aware of how I respond to his emotional needs and experiences. He's got such a big heart, and I want both him and the world to see that as one of his greatest strengths.