Outdated Notions About Gender Roles

The chart below shows how rethinking traditional masculinity and femininity can bring positive change. Think about how these ideas can reshape how students think about the roles of men and women.

Healthy masculinity means…

He does not use his body to threaten others.
He does not harass women.
He does not treat women like sex objects.
He does not devalue feminine traits.
He does not get to decide when his partner has sex.
He does not have to do everything on his own.
He does not have to hide his feelings.
He does not expect women to meet his needs.
He can be vulnerable or ask for help.
He doesn’t set the ground rules for the relationship.

Healthy femininity means…

She does not feel weak because of her size.
She does not face harassment.
Her value is not measured by her looks, but by her character.
She is not devalued for being feminine.
She does not owe sex to anybody.
She does not always need help. She can think for herself.
She is not called “overemotional” or “hysterical” when she shows her feelings.
She does not exist solely for the pleasure of men.
She can be strong, independent, proud, and powerful.
She has equal say in her relationship.

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