Zeilinger believes that not only women suffer from oppressive gender roles. Men often suffer just as much if not more. It tries to expose the problems that men face in today's society. The kids have emotions and when they arrive they face a big dilemma. They may disconnect from their human emotions or live in a “state of contradiction” against their “manliness.” The characteristics that traditionally come with being a man are harmful to society. They are expected to be “cunning and take power and control instead of sharing it.” Men must be willing to single out weaker men to be above them. Zeilinger highlights the negative effects of this traditional mentality. Boys are afraid to stray from the rigid rules of manhood. If men go against common standards they risk losing their identity as men. Those who choose not to follow these social norms are seen as a threat by those who cling to them. Gay men, for example, often choose to stray from these norms. Zeilinger tells the story of a gay friend who must overcome "male and female stigma." He often feels displaced because he doesn't fit into the realm of male or female roles. Zeilinger concludes his article by calling for change among both men and women to create a healthier world
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