In a world that aims for equality double standards still exist. They create invisible barriers that define how men and women are treated. These unfair standards affect many areas of life such as appearance, career, behavior and relationships.
Women are often judged by their looks and expected to maintain unrealistic beauty standards. They are told to stay slim, dress attractively and always look perfect. Men on the other hand are praised for looking natural and rugged with little pressure to groom themselves.
The media adds to this imbalance. Women are expected to stay youthful and flawless while men with gray hair or wrinkles are admired as “distinguished.”
In the workplace women often face doubts about their abilities and commitment especially if they are mothers. A man with a family is seen as responsible and hardworking. A woman in the same situation is asked “How do you manage work and home?”
Assertive women are often called “bossy” or “difficult” while men showing the same traits are seen as “confident” and “strong leaders.” Women also earn less than men even when they perform equally well.
Society expects women to focus on family and caregiving while men are encouraged to focus on their careers. If a woman decides not to marry or have children she is often seen as selfish or incomplete. A man who stays single is admired for his freedom and independence.
In dating men are praised for having experience while women are criticized for the same. Women who are open about their desires are judged but men are admired for being bold.
Men are taught to hide their emotions and are often told to “man up” instead of showing feelings. Women are labeled as overly emotional and their feelings are often dismissed. These double standards harm both genders by promoting toxic masculinity and making it harder for women to be taken seriously.
Women are often told to be careful about their safety what they wear where they go and who they are with. Victim-blaming is common and women are expected to take responsibility for their own safety. Men however rarely face these rules and can move more freely without fear of judgment.
To remove these double standards society must change outdated beliefs and encourage fairness.
Education is important to teach equality from a young age. Both men and women should support one another instead of criticizing each other.
Workplaces laws and media also need to change to create fair environments where people are judged for their skills and values not their gender.
Double standards between men and women are unfair and harmful. They limit freedom and equality for both genders. Breaking these barriers requires effort and action. By addressing these issues we can create a world where everyone has a chance to succeed and live without fear of judgment.
Written By: –
Rtr. Shenya Chandrasiri
(Co-Editor 2024-25)
Edited By: –
Rtr. Umesh Eranda Pannilavithana
(Junior Blog Member 2024-25)
