Big boys don't cry : reflections on nurture in male culture and education
Date
2003
Authors
Penton, John
University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Education
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Lethbridge, Alta. : University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education, 2003
Abstract
This project takes on the form of a personal narrative of my life experiences as a boy,
man, teacher, parent, and husband. My focus is on nurture in the male culture as it relates
to a man's experience in our society. The process of intense self-reflection necessary in
creating a narrative project of this type is, in itself, part of a personal defining or
redefining of myself. I believe that going through such an exercise can be a very valuable
teaching tool for anyone seeking to change or improve his or her life. From a teaching
perspective I believe this is especially important as teaching is, or should be, a very
personal experience that relies on much more than technical skill. In many respects, I
believe that who we are is how we teach.
This project examines male nurture from within four primary topic areas. These are: Male
Suppression of Pain; Male Sensuality and Nurture; Fathers and Nurture; and Nurture and
Male Teaching. Through the discussion of this issue through these topics, I hope to be
able to show my audience what it is like to be a man dealing with an issue that is not
traditionally considered to be within the male sphere of interest. I want to show, as well,
how men are constrained in their society and culture just as many women are constrained
by theirs. This is not, however, a comparison between men and women since
comparisons often encourage us to emulate others rather than be true to ourselves. This
personal account of my own journey as a male in our society and on the teaching
profession is about what I have perceived and want rather than what I have been told to
desire.
Description
v, 76 leaves ; 29 cm. --
Keywords
Boys -- Education -- Social aspects , Nature and nurture , Masculinity in popular culture , Sex differences in education -- Social aspects