From the moment we are born, we are socialized according to our assumed gender.

Without even knowing, we grow up following a certain gender journey. If we step outside of that path, there can be significant repercussions. Typically, boys are rewarded for being “real men,” for their toughness, athleticism, for winning at all costs, never backing down, being in control and unemotional, and for their sexual prowess when they grow up.

Girls, meanwhile, are encouraged to express vulnerability, seek help when needed, be subservient, value certain careers over others, and be guarded about their sexuality.

In a recent study, half of boys said they’d heard men in their family make sexual jokes or comments about women; those boys were more likely to feel pressure to be tough and play along with sexism.

An even bigger share, 82 per cent, said they had heard someone criticize a boy for “acting like a girl.” At the same time, new research has pointed to girls feeling more empowered than in the past and facing less gender rigidity than boys.

These stereotypical gender norms, when internalized and if unchecked, may lead to tremendous harm for young people and adults, especially when they pressure children and youth to behave in strict and rigid ways.

The use of risky behaviours, including violence, bullying, dominance and control among boys, young men and men to prove they are “real men,” has devastating consequences – for them, and for our homes, schools, communities and workplaces.