What is a common consequence of socializing boys toward exaggerated masculinity norms?

• A. They develop heightened empathy.
• B. Become emotionally unresponsive and are impaired in intimate relationships.
• C. They improve their ability to form intimate relationships.
• D. They demonstrate greater empathy toward others.

Answer: (B)

Rigid masculine norms teach boys to hide vulnerability and prize stoicism and self-reliance. When emotional expression is discouraged, they often develop a limited emotional vocabulary and struggle to recognize or share their feelings. In intimate relationships, this emotional unresponsiveness makes it hard to attune to a partner, express care, and engage in open, meaningful communication. Over time, the inability to be emotionally present can impair closeness and relationship satisfaction. In counseling, addressing these norms and promoting healthy emotional expression helps improve relational functioning. Options that imply greater empathy or better intimate relationships don’t fit with how rigid gender norms typically shape emotional openness and connection, which tend to reduce empathy and hinder closeness.