Ep 25. Why do so many men lack meaningful friendships? And what does this have to do with 'The Man Box'?

In this episode I talk honestly on the significance of cultivating and maintaining meaningful friendships, especially among men who may struggle to invest in relationships. Research suggests of the primary reasons many men lack friendships is an underlying sense of disposability that they inherit from their life experience, role models, social pressures, and societal norms. I chat about the negative impact of conforming to societal expectations placed on men, known as the "man box," and the importance of avoiding its seven pillars. I touch on how men are often brought up with the expectation of being strong, self-sufficient, and suppressing their emotions, which can result in feelings of inadequacy and isolation.I also talked about how these societal expectations can negatively affect men's mental health and contribute to a lack of emotional support. Towards the end I chat about the "man box" and for equipping boys with the tools to navigate it. As a dad I want to encourage my sons to form emotional connections and develop healthy friendships, so they can support each other through life's challenges. I'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences. Contact me and find more at www.davidtensen.com Find this on Youtube: https://youtu.be/mk2EbrJJ2l0 Additional Resources Mentioned: My article on the Man Box: https://davidtensen.com/as-my-boys-become-men-the-damaging-effects-of-the-man-box-and-why-i-am-parenting-the-hell-out-of-it/ The Boy Crisis book: https://www.amazon.com/Boy-Crisis-Boys-Struggling-About/dp/1942952716 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/david-tensen/message