Socialization, books and books have been written about this topic so to completely address it here may be way outside a reasonable expectation, that being said, it needs to be recognized as an influential aspect of any group dynamic. Men and women are socialized in different ways (that is clear) so I would suggest the healing process requires sensitivity to those differences not a judgement of them.
Socialization of both men and women is unavoidable, has its value, and also its stereotypical restrictions. It seems to me though, when we embrace outdated versions of male/female we are left with a more difficult task, in the context of healing. We have a choice to focus on the darker aspect of male/female dynamic or to focus on the light (highest potential) to guide the healing process.
The path of healing for men and women is different for many reasons but to name a few I would suggest that socialization, associated stigma, and the natural and authentic expression of masculine/feminine are paramount.
Are men and women different? Well, yes!
So, what does that mean in the context of healing? It seems to me that the one size fits all model of healing cannot be helpful. The concepts of safety, communion, and autonomy are necessary in the healing journey but the words can mean very different things to men and women.
I have clients (men and women) who work in careers that highly stigmatize any “cry” for help . Each of these clients has an EAP program available to them but they are reluctant to use it. Why is that? Fear of implications if someone found out they needed help. Stigma is a powerful force in our culture and it has a profoundly negative impact on both men and women looking for help.
