When Aarav was eight, he cried in front of his classmates after losing a race. Instead of comfort, he heard laughter.
“Don’t cry like a girl,” the teacher said.

That was the day Aarav learned that expressing emotions wasn’t “manly.” He stopped crying. Not just that day — but for years.

This is the silent harm of toxic masculinity — a social script that tells boys they must be tough, emotionless, dominant, and in control.
But it’s time to ask: At what cost?

What is Toxic Masculinity?

Toxic masculinity isn’t about saying masculinity is bad — it’s about identifying the harmful traits often forced onto men:

• Emotional suppression (“men don’t cry”)
  
• Aggression as strength
  
• Fear of vulnerability
  
• Disrespect for women and queer individuals
  

These pressures don’t just hurt others — they damage men too.

The Emotional Toll on Boys and Men

According to a 2021 study by WHO:

• Men are 3.5 times more likely to die by suicide than women globally.
  
• In India, the rate of untreated mental health issues in men is rising — because most never seek help.
  

Why? Because they’ve been taught that asking for help = weakness.

This belief starts early. Boys are discouraged from playing with dolls, wearing pink, or being sensitive. They’re told to “man up” and never show fear.

This robs them of emotional freedom, healthy relationships, and even mental health.

Redefining Masculinity for a Healthier Future

We need to raise a generation where:

Vulnerability is seen as strength, not weakness.

Boys can cry without shame.

Men can choose kindness over dominance.

Here’s how we begin:

Change Conversations at Home – Encourage open emotional expression for all genders.

Teach Consent and Empathy in Schools – Let boys know that respect and sensitivity are powerful traits.

Celebrate Diverse Role Models – From nurturing fathers to male therapists and artists, redefine what “being a man” looks like.

Therapy is Strength – Normalize mental health care for boys and men.

From Aarav to Empowered Men

Today, Aarav is 24 and a school counselor. He teaches boys how to name their feelings, resolve conflict without violence, and express themselves without fear. His sessions start with one rule:

“It’s okay to cry. That means you’re human.”