The Inexpressive Male: Functional-Conflict and Role Theory as Contrasting Explanations

Functional-conflict and role theory perspectives are compared and contrasted in their ability to explain male inexpressiveness. Although both perspectives should be utilized as approaches to study male inexpressive behavior empirically, it is suggested that the role theory approach has the advantage of incorporating both the individual and the social structure in explaining male inexpressiveness. It is suggested that change in male expressiveness can be expected if males are encouraged to devote less time and energy to roles where the expression of feelings are eschewed and more to emotionally laden roles.