15 Areas Where Men May Excel Differently Than Women

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Men and women possess unique strengths, both physically and mentally. While women excel in many areas, there are specific tasks and situations that men may handle more easily. Here are 15 things men face differently, while women may encounter more challenges.

Heavy Lifting

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Men generally have more muscle mass and upper body strength, making heavy lifting easier. Women, on average, have less muscle mass and more body fat, making lifting heavier objects more challenging. Additionally, societal expectations and gender roles may discourage women from developing strength and lifting skills, exacerbating the struggle.

Childlessness Stigma

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Women of a certain age without children may feel societal judgment. Men don’t face the same scrutiny. In a 2020 survey completed by Pew Research Center, 42% of childfree women reported feeling judged or criticized for their decision, compared to 24% of childfree men.

Fixing Things

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The males are usually more practical and knowledgeable regarding mechanical and electrical machines. Females tend to rely on others for repairs and maintenance and may face gender bias and discrimination when trying to learn these skills.

Dealing with Insects

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Gendered expectations and stereotypes have perpetuated the idea that men are braver and more capable of handling insects while women are more squeamish and delicate. A 2019 survey by the National Pest Management Association found that 62% of men take the lead in pest control decisions, while 55% of women rely on others to handle pest issues.

Driving Long Distances

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When driving long distances, men are more likely than women to make such trips for hours or even overnight due to the excitement of traveling. This is why they check tire pressure, fluid levels, and overall car performance to avoid breakdowns.

Handling Snakes

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Traditionally, women are not expected to handle snakes. It is viewed as a masculine role. This may inspire men to pursue careers or hobbies that involve working with snakes, such as herpetology or snake handling. With education, exposure, and support, anyone can learn to handle snakes safely, regardless of gender.

Working with Tools

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From a young age, boys are enabled to play with tools and engage in activities that require manual skills, such as building and fixing things. So, you’re more likely to find a male carpenter and plumber. Girls have to deal with stereotypes in this aspect. However, with the emergence of movements for gender equality and diversity in all fields, more women are pursuing careers working with tools.

Catcalling and unwanted attention

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According to findings by the National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC), 1 in 5 women (21.4%) in the United States has experienced sexual harassment or unwanted sexual contact in public. Catcalling and unwanted attention are forms of street harassment that disproportionately affect women. Men may view it as flattery, but women feel objectified and unsafe.

Footwear Comfort

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For decades, men have enjoyed comfortable footwear options, while women have often been expected to sacrifice comfort for style, particularly with high heels. Fortunately, there is a growing trend towards more comfortable and inclusive footwear designs for everyone.

Makeup Expectations

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Men have mixed views on makeup, with some seeing it as a sign of insecurity and others as a form of self-expression. Meanwhile, women are often expected to wear makeup daily, while men face little to no pressure to do so.

Aging and Botox

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Men are less likely to feel this pressure and are therefore less likely to undergo such procedures, despite the growing acceptance of men’s grooming and self-care. In contrast, women are disproportionately subject to societal pressure to have a youthful appearance, leading many to consider cosmetic procedures like Botox.

Car Maintenance

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Men are encouraged from a young age to learn about engines, tools, and mechanical systems. Women, on the other hand, maybe less likely to be encouraged or exposed to these skills and may face gender bias and stereotypes that assume they are less capable or interested in car maintenance. However, with the rise of female mechanics and car enthusiasts, this gender gap is slowly closing.

Extreme Adventures

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Boys are often permitted to take risks and seek thrills and may be more likely to pursue extreme adventures such as skydiving, rock climbing, or extreme sports. Women, on the other hand, may be raised to prioritize safety and caution. Women may face practical barriers such as a lack of access to resources, training, or support, making it more challenging to pursue extreme adventures. However, many women break these barriers and push boundaries in extreme sports and adventures.

Pay Equity

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In the Global Gender Gap Report 2017, women face pay disparities, earning 80 cents per dollar earned by men, with women of color facing even more significant gaps (African American: 61 cents, Hispanic: 53 cents, Native American: 58 cents). Men dominate high-paying fields, while women dominate lower-paying ones, with discrimination and bias contributing to unequal pay.

Keeping Quiet

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Throughout history, femininity has been closely linked with traits such as being communicative and emotionally expressive. On the other hand, men have often been encouraged to embody stoicism and reserve. Traditional concepts of masculinity have reinforced the idea that men should remain silent and suppress their thoughts and emotions.

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