Proceedings of the 10th International Conference on New Findings in Humanities and Social Sciences, 2024
Year: 2024
DOI:
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Being A Male in Nepal, Not an Easy Job Either: High School Boys’ Perspectives
Pragya Paneru
ABSTRACT:
The present research paper explores the perspectives of high school boys concerning living as a male in Nepalese society. A total of 20 boys from a high school located in Kathmandu took part in this study and provided their written responses to the given prompt. The written responses from the participants were analysed using a content analysis method from a gender perspective. Rather than focusing on their own lives, the participants voluntarily reflected on the gender discrimination against girls prevalent in the society that values males over females and contributes to women related social problems such as women violence, dowry, unequal distribution of opportunities, restrictions in social and personal lives, and so on. It suggested that the boys were aware and concerned considering women’s issues prevalent in Nepalese society and criticised gender based discriminative practices. In contrast to the females’ lives, they agreed that being a male in Nepal adds value and privilege giving them more freedom, encouragement, and opportunities. However, they were also mindful of obscure aspects of being a male. According to them, being a male in Nepal is to restrict their emotions and vulnerability. It is being solely burdened with family responsibility and often sacrificing their study and personal comfort to fulfil familial economic responsibilities. Males’ worth in Nepal is often based on their economic productivity and assets rather than on their character as a result they are pressurised to get a job and earn to prove their self-worth at an early age. Males are often doubted and assumed as a culprit. Although there are institutions and organisations for the protection of women’s rights, males lack similar social and institutional support. This makes them more vulnerable, prone to depression, and even leads to fatal decisions. This paper contributes to highlighting the impact of gender on males.
keywords: gender discrimination, male privilege, male vulnerability, school students, Nepal