Men have opened up about the behaviours from other men that have caused disgust, often referred to as "icks."
A prominent "ick", shared by multiple men, was that men often neglect basic hygiene, such as washing their hands after using the bathroom. Another unsettling behaviour frequently mentioned was the sexualisation of underage women. Accounts of men using inappropriate language to describe young girls or making lewd remarks were prevalent. One disturbing incident took place at a Best Buy store, where a man commented inappropriately about two young girls to another male shopper, reflecting a behaviour that many find unacceptable.
Among other grievances, discussions veered into issues of toxic masculinity. Men expressed discomfort with peers who boasted about their 'Alpha Male' status or espoused misogynistic and sexist attitudes. Some described experiences where individuals aggressively demonstrated masculinity or shared exaggerated tales of sexual exploits, only to be met with discomfort and derision from others.
The conversation also touched on the perceived immaturity and insecurity reflected in certain male behaviours. Men shared examples of derogatory comments about women when they're not present, often boasting or making condescending jokes about their partners. Such behaviours often led to the deterioration of friendships, as some expressed losing respect for peers who engaged in these acts.
Another area of concern was toxic competitiveness among men, often manifesting in juvenile behaviour such as unnecessarily aggressive handshakes or derogatory comments about others in attempts to assert dominance.
These anecdotes serve to illustrate the kind of toxic behaviours some men encounter in their social circles, behaviours which they feel uncomfortable with and often strive to distance themselves from. Issues relating to body image and self-presentation were also highlighted, with some expressing disdain for peers obsessed with maintaining a specific physique or image, sometimes to the detriment of their mental health.
More than just airing grievances, the discourse provides insight into the social dynamics and peer expectations men navigate, revealing widespread discomfort with certain behaviours that perpetuate outdated notions of masculinity and relationships.
Source: Noah Wire Services