In: Root » Recreation and sport » Sex
This has turned into an issue of growing complexity and importance as our society becomes aware of the large number of children born with unclear gender identity, as well as the various social, political, and even financial reasons why having a distinct gender seems to be required. No one is sure whether male children are born with or learn effeminate behavior. Growing scientific evidence suggests that some traditionally feminine characteristics are biologically determined in some gay men. Whatever the genetic or physiological cause for those boys’ feminine traits and interests, they are as natural to them as an interest in baseball is to the stereotypical boy. In school, these boys are taunted constantly and mocked as “sissies.” They are often rejected by peers, teachers, and in some cases, their own parents. Repeatedly told to “act like a boy,” they come to believe that there is nothing right about them. This effeminacy is part of their character and remains throughout life. On the other hand, some young men come out who never expressed effeminate behavior in childhood but may do so in adolescence. These are usually teens who are trying to get even with parents who don’t accept their homosexuality. In some cases, they can drive their parents insane. It’s rare that such behavior lasts very long; usually it disappears as they become more at ease with their sexuality. If they find a group of other gay young men, they may overemphasize effeminate traits and vocalizations whenever they are together. This is often allied to camping, and they are sometimes known as “screamers” and “twinkies” when together. Alone, they tend to be far less affected. In fact, when they are acting effeminate, they are actually socially bonding, consolidating their group identity for themselves, one another, and everyone else. Effeminacy is by no means limited to gay men. One will also find effeminate straight boys who are taken for gay and discriminated against as fully as are gay boys. From grade school right through adult life, the effeminate male is perceived as different from other males and is bullied and beaten up. Regrettably, even adult gay men may discriminate against an effeminate man. “He’s too femme,” they say, to rationalize their ostracism. This attitude is based upon the traditional notion of a strong and impermeable barrier between male and female behavior. “Straight acting” is the most important facade in their lives, and they’ll only date another like-minded gay man. If you find yourself uncomfortable in the company of men with feminine traits, don’t blame it on them. Instead, ask yourself why you’re afraid; it could be that it’s an expression of your own unconscious homophobia.
|
|||||||||||
Disclaimer
1) E-articles is not responsible for the information contained by this article as well for any and all copyright infringements by authors and writers. E-articles is a free information resource. If you suspect this article for any copyright infringement, please read the terms of service and contact us or use the "Report this article" button on this page to investigate the problem.
2) E-articles is not responsible for inaccuracies, falsehoods, or any other types of misinformation this article may contain and will not be liable for any loss or damage suffered by a user through the user's reliance on the information gained here. |
|||||||||||
