Great insights Scott. A corollary to this is the difficulty that men have in making and keeping close friends. I believe it is because we are unwilling, or unable, to be fully vulnerable and be who we really are with our male friends. We can share our innermost feelings with a lover or trusted partner, but that’s usually not possible, or even advisable, with other men. (Yes, I am speaking from a heterosexual perspective). The banter among golfing buddies is usually superficial and often quite juvenile. The fathers of my son’s high school friend group just wanted to talk about cars or work.

I remember many years ago trying to talk to an old friend about my disabled toddler daughter, and the emotional challenges of adjusting to her reality. He did not want to get into that discussion and kept avoiding the subject. It infuriated me, and we were never really friends again.

Vulnerability, emotional safety, and giving and receiving affection are all interconnected. Having male role models who are comfortable with who they are and in experiencing their emotions is uncommon and, to your point, becoming rare. I appreciate your being an important voice on this issue.