Young children have impressionable minds that have the potential to grow up to be an insecure woman or a sexist man as a result of double standards. I am aware not every girl is insecure, just like every man is not sexist. However, these are real roles I have observed and experienced personally. Double standards are unfairly difficult, especially when they are gender based. There are many double standards to choose from, but I want to discuss a few of the body double standards between men and women.
One time I was having a conversation with a male acquaintance on the subject of tattoos. When I stated I was interested in getting one, he told me tattoos do not look right on girls. This was not the first time I was informed of this view. When I mentioned the fact that he wanted a tattoo, he replied, “Men are like Jeeps. If we have a few dings, it adds character. Women are like sports cars. You don’t want any dings in your sports car.” I was familiar with his sexist, backwards thinking, but I felt this was too far. As long as it is consented, each individual has a right to do what they want with their body regardless of gender.
Another double standard is the body itself. I have witnessed many conversations between males about the topic of the female body. I have heard men say, “That girl has the potential to be hot if she did something with her hair” or “Dude, this chick had a banging body with big t—s.” How is that supposed to make me and the other women who witness these types of conversations feel? In short, we feel like crap. “If they are dissecting those girls’ bodies then they must be doing the same about me,” has gone through my head on more than one occasion. Not all men are critics like this, but the men that are help women feel more insecure then they already do. While women are told to fix their hair or lose weight, men are told the “Dad Bod” look is acceptable. Having a little gut is okay! You don’t have to be perfectly fit, we will still find you attractive! Why is there no “Mom Bod”?
The media, such as film and advertisements, are partly to blame for the gender double standards in our society. The media depicts a certain standard for men and women, and then we adapt those roles into our daily lives. I am aware men are victims of double standards as well. Traditionally, men are supposed to be strong and tough, while women are seen as more vulnerable. If a man is too in touch with his emotions, he is looked down upon while women are not. Ultimately, double standards are not okay for either gender. The conversation is slowly starting to change as more people fight against the double standards. Hopefully, the young minds of today will not be influenced further by double standards and the people who propagate these messages.