Search Results: expressing feelings

Since 2001 we have been wrestling with men and with boys to talk about his feelings, and don't be a Gorilla and hide them. .. we went out to schools, Summer camps, hosted events catered to young men all around America since 1998-2001 encouraging them show more emotion and be open about how they feel. And have emotional intelligence.

This is what we've come to Avoid and overlook.

here is a case study

Brian is often told to express his emotional side and show emotions however his father takes a bwlt a whips him and Sister tells him"you're a boy! You must remember that!" His mother scolds him for crying or showing any emotions that people encourage Brian to show..



This heartbreaking case study illustrates the stark contrast between societal expectations and harsh home realities.
Brian's Dilemma:
Encouraged by outsiders to express emotions → Contradicted by family members who punish/emotionally abuse him for doing so.
Consequences:
Emotional confusion
Fear of expression
Internalized shame
Difficulty forming healthy relationships
Systemic Issues:
Intergenerational trauma (father's behavior likely learned from his own upbringing)

Lack of emotional support and validation
Impact on Brian:
Emotional numbing
Decreased self-esteem
Increased stress and anxiety
Potential long-term mental health issues (depression, anxiety disorders)
Break the Cycle:
Safe, supportive therapy for Brian and his family.
Educate parents/guardians on emotional intelligence and healthy expression.
Address intergenerational trauma through family therapy.
Encourage positive male role models and mentors.
Resources:
National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233)
Childhelp (1-800-422-4453)
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Helpline (1-800-950-6264)

Key Takeaway:
Societal encouragement of emotional expression must be matched by safe, supportive home environments. We must address systemic issues and provide resources for families to break cycles of trauma.

I made it clear to this man from the beginning that I wasn’t looking for anything casual or serious due to my past experiences. He initially seemed understanding and gained my trust, which led me to develop feelings for him. However, once I expressed my desire to take things slow, he started to pull away and make excuses.

On our date, he shifted dramatically when I still didn’t want to have sex… he became rude and insulting, and ultimately ghosting me afterward. It was clear he only wanted sex despite my boundaries, which felt predatory. This experience has been painful, and I’m still trying to process it.