8 Things Society Shames Men For That Women Get Praised For
We talk a lot about gender equality—and for good reason. But what often gets overlooked are the double standards for men that still quietly shape expectations, behavior, and judgment. While women have rightly fought for freedom of expression and autonomy, men are often boxed in with outdated notions of toughness and emotional restraint. In some areas of life, women get praise for actions that, if done by men, are met with side-eyes or flat-out criticism. It’s time we talked about it. Here are eight things society shames men for that women are regularly applauded for.
1. Showing Vulnerability
When a woman cries or opens up about her emotions, she’s often met with empathy and support. But when a man does the same, he’s more likely to be told to “man up” or accused of being weak. This toxic idea that real men should be stoic has created a mental health crisis, with many men suffering in silence. Vulnerability should be a sign of strength, not a flaw. Everyone benefits when we normalize emotional honesty for both genders.
2. Being Single or Child-Free by Choice
A woman who chooses to stay single or focus on her career is often seen as independent and empowered. But a man in the same position? He’s called immature, selfish, or even accused of having commitment issues. The truth is, some people—regardless of gender—just don’t want to settle down, and that’s okay. Double standards for men push them toward relationships they may not want, just to avoid social judgment. It’s time we let everyone define fulfillment for themselves.
3. Taking Care of Their Appearance
A woman who gets her nails done, buys skincare products, or spends hours perfecting her look is celebrated for self-care. When a man does it, he’s often labeled vain, shallow, or worse, questioned about his masculinity. But why should anyone be shamed for wanting to look and feel their best? Good grooming and style shouldn’t have a gender. Men deserve the freedom to care about their appearance without ridicule.
4. Prioritizing Mental Health
Women are encouraged to go to therapy, talk through problems, and journal their feelings. Men, on the other hand, are often discouraged from seeking help or seen as “broken” for doing so. This outdated mindset has kept many men from prioritizing mental wellness. The result? Increased rates of anxiety, depression, and even suicide. Removing the double standards for men when it comes to mental health could save lives—literally.
5. Being Stay-at-Home Parents
A woman who stays home to raise her kids is admired for her dedication. A man who does the same is often asked if he’s unemployed or made to feel like less of a provider. The reality is that being a stay-at-home parent is hard work, regardless of who’s doing it. Many dads thrive in this role and form powerful bonds with their kids. It’s time society stopped shaming men for choosing family over a paycheck.
6. Wanting Physical Affection Without Sex
Women can openly crave hugs, cuddles, and physical closeness without it being sexual. Men, however, are often viewed as always wanting something “more,” making their desire for non-sexual affection seem suspect. This deeply ingrained stereotype erases men’s emotional needs. Not all touch has to be sexual, and men are human beings who need love and warmth just like everyone else. Let’s stop acting like tenderness is gender-specific.
7. Changing Careers or Starting Over
When women reinvent themselves or switch careers later in life, it’s seen as bold and inspiring. But if a man does it, he’s often viewed as unstable or a failure who didn’t “figure it out” earlier. This harmful thinking discourages men from taking needed risks or pursuing passions. Success doesn’t come on a fixed timeline, and everyone deserves the chance to reset. These double standards for men limit growth for no good reason.
8. Seeking Emotional Connection in Friendships
Women are praised for having deep, emotionally connected friendships. Men, on the other hand, are often expected to keep things surface-level and “just talk sports.” When a man expresses vulnerability or seeks emotional closeness with a male friend, he risks being mocked. This prevents many men from forming meaningful support systems. It’s long overdue that we normalize deep male friendships and drop the tired assumptions.
Recognizing the Standards Is the First Step to Changing Them
Calling out these double standards for men doesn’t diminish the struggles women face—it highlights how everyone can be hurt by rigid gender roles. Men deserve the same freedom to express, explore, and evolve without being shamed. Breaking these patterns will take empathy, open conversations, and a willingness to challenge what we think we know about masculinity. Equality should uplift everyone, not just one side.
Have you ever been judged for doing something just because you’re a man? Or seen someone else go through it? Share your experience in the comments!
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Drew Blankenship is a former Porsche technician who writes and develops content full-time. He lives in North Carolina, where he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. While Drew no longer gets his hands dirty modifying Porsches, he still loves motorsport and avidly watches Formula 1.