Gender Role Conflict Theory

Gender Role Conflict Theory suggests that societal expectations about how men and women should behave can create inner struggles when individuals feel pressured to conform to these roles. For men, this might mean feeling unable to express vulnerability or emotions, leading to stress and conflict. For women, it could involve feeling restricted by traditional expectations of behavior or responsibilities. These internal conflicts can impact mental health, relationships, and overall well-being. The theory emphasizes understanding how gender norms shape personal identity and encourages challenging restrictive roles for healthier, more authentic self-expression.