A recent conversation with Jordan Ritter Conn, author of ‘American Men,’ highlights the importance of men opening up about their emotions and struggles. Conn’s book follows four men who struggle with their masculinity and vulnerability, showing what it’s like to live as a whole person instead of two fractured ones.

The Importance of Vulnerability

Men are often taught to ‘man up’ and deal with their emotions on their own, but this can lead to hidden depression, anxiety, and even violence. Conn argues that men need permission and structure to open up, and that this can be achieved through genuine interest and curiosity from others.

Conn’s book shows that men can benefit from opening up and sharing their emotions, and that this can lead to a sense of peace and connection with others. The book also highlights the importance of fathers being better parents and men, and how they can take away valuable lessons from the stories of the men in the book.

Overcoming Shame and Anger

Men often struggle with overcoming shame and anger when they open up about their emotions. Conn suggests that this can be achieved by slowly feeling more love and care for oneself, and by reminding oneself that they are more than their humiliations. He also argues that men need to invite each other into closer connection and ask genuine questions to help them open up.

Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.