Do men struggle with friendships?
TL;DR of this article from ChatGPT:
The article explores how societal expectations and stereotypes impact male friendships in America. Historically, men openly expressed affection for their friends, but today, close platonic relationships between straight men face scrutiny and assumptions about sexuality. The author uses the story of two friends, one gay and one straight, to illustrate how cultural norms restrict emotional intimacy among men. The straight friend initially feels uncomfortable with physical affection due to societal pressures, but eventually learns to differentiate genuine intimacy from attraction. The article highlights the lack of emotional support networks for men, often placing undue burden on female partners. It argues for dismantling rigid masculinity and fostering healthier expressions of friendship among men, regardless of their sexuality.