Do not cry, you’re a boy/men

Purpose, Scope or Aim of the OER

Stereotypes are present in all spheres of modern life. Often we are so used to them, that we do not even consider them as stereotypes, including statements that only girls wear pink for example, or that men don`t cry, and those who do are not “real” man. We are exposed to stereotypes since early age throughout our life, and they are pasted from one generation to another.

Short Description of the methods or approaches used in this OER

One of the causes of violence is gender-based stereotypes.

TRUE or FALSE

Real men are strong and do not cry.
A man/boy should not be afraid of anything! And even if he is afraid – it’s not all right to talk about it with anyone.
Have you ever told your own children “Do not cry, you’re a boy/men”?

Open question

• Who can change children’s opinions about stereotypes?

Step-by-step instructions for teachers to use OER

Positive messages:

It is not a shame if a boy or a girl cries.
Both girls and boys can wear pink clothes.
All the family members should be involved in the decision making.

Negative message:

Men do not wash dishes, nor do the laundry.
There are jobs only for men and jobs only for women.
Women love children more than men.

This workshop manual is dedicated specially, but not limited, to professional and young leaders that are engaged in activities with boys and young men of 12 years and older, to develop a set of skills and abilities with the main goal to decrease the violent and abusive behaviour among young men and their peers and to promote a gender equal non-judgmental conduct.