Social Double Standards: 18 Traits Embraced in Women but Criticized in Men

Society has made great strides in challenging traditional gender norms, but certain double standards persist. There are instances where actions taken by women are met with acceptance or even praise, but if men were to do the same, they might face scandal and judgment. In this article, we’ll explore 18 examples of things women do that would raise eyebrows if men did them.

Crying in Public

Women expressing their emotions openly is often accepted, and their vulnerability is acknowledged. In contrast, men doing the same may be seen as weak or overly sensitive, carrying the burden of societal expectations.  

Wearing Makeup

Women can enhance their features with makeup without judgment, enjoying the creative expression it allows. However, men who choose to wear makeup often encounter criticism and face societal norms that question their masculinity.  

Parenting Alone

Women who raise children independently are often admired for their strength and determination. On the flip side, men who embrace single parenthood may face heightened scrutiny and skepticism about their ability to nurture.  

Changing Their Last Name After Marriage

Many women change their last names after marriage without issue, a tradition deeply ingrained in our culture. Conversely, if a man were to do the same, it might be considered unusual, challenging traditional gender norms.  

Being Fashionably Late

Women may arrive fashionably late at events, and their tardiness is often tolerated with a sense of patience. In contrast, men who arrive late may be perceived as inconsiderate or rude, highlighting a double standard in punctuality expectations.  

Wearing High Heels

High heels are a fashion choice for women, and their decision to wear them is typically met with acceptance. Conversely, men wearing high heels may face judgment and ridicule, showcasing society’s rigid gendered fashion expectations.  

Sharing Emotional Stories

Women sharing emotional or personal stories are often celebrated for their openness and willingness to connect. However, when men share similar stories, they may be seen as oversharing, revealing a societal discomfort with male vulnerability.  

Complimenting Appearances

Women often compliment each other’s appearances openly, fostering a sense of camaraderie. In contrast, men complimenting other men’s appearances may be met with discomfort, reflecting the unease surrounding non-traditional expressions of masculinity.  

Carrying a Handbag

Women carry handbags as a matter of convenience and style, and it’s rarely questioned. However, men carrying similar bags may face inquiries about their masculinity, underscoring the arbitrary gendered associations assigned to everyday items.  

Having Close Platonic Relationships

Women can have close, affectionate friendships, fostering emotional connections without judgment. In contrast, men who do the same might be labeled “too emotional,” facing societal expectations of emotional restraint.  

Expressing Vulnerability

Women who express vulnerability are often celebrated for their courage in embracing their emotions. Conversely, men expressing vulnerability can be viewed as weak or lacking resilience, reflecting deep-seated stereotypes about masculinity.  

Wearing Skirts or Dresses

Women can wear skirts or dresses, expressing their style choices without question. However, men doing the same are often subject to ridicule or misunderstanding, highlighting the rigidity of gendered fashion norms.  

Initiating a Proposal

Women proposing marriage is increasingly celebrated as a gesture of love and commitment. In contrast, when men are proposed to, they may face skepticism about their willingness to commit, revealing persistent stereotypes about gender roles.  

Being a Stay-At-Home Parent

Women who choose to be stay-at-home parents are often respected for their dedication to raising children. Meanwhile, men in the same role may face questions about their ambition, underscoring the persistent bias surrounding traditional gender roles.  

Ordering Lighter Alcoholic Drinks

Women ordering lighter alcoholic drinks is a common choice, reflecting personal preferences without judgment. However, men who make similar choices may encounter teasing about their drink preferences, revealing societal norms around masculinity.  

Seeking Help for Mental Health

Women seeking help for mental health concerns are often encouraged and supported in their pursuit of well-being. Conversely, men are sometimes hesitant due to potential stigma, highlighting the need to challenge stereotypes that discourage emotional expression.  

Being Emotional During Movies

Women getting emotional during movies is an expected reaction, and their emotional responses are often embraced. However, men doing the same might be told to “toughen up,” exposing the societal discomfort with male vulnerability.  

Choosing Non-traditional Careers

Women pursuing non-traditional careers are applauded for breaking barriers and pursuing their passions. Conversely, men in similar roles may face prejudice or mockery, reflecting the persistent challenges in dismantling gender stereotypes in the workplace.

 

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Rejected by Today’s Standards: 18 Outdated TV Shows That Would Be Instantly Canned

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Boomer Fads on Life Support: The 18 Trends Racing Towards Extinction!

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15 Famous Quotes Guaranteed To Send Shivers Through Your Soul

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Robbery in Plain Sight: 18 Tax Breaks for the Over 50s They Hope You’ll Never Discover

Epic Boomer Blunders: 15 Epic Fails That Boggled Millennials

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Epic Boomer Blunders: 15 Epic Fails That Boggled Millennials