Masculinities - Tumblr Posts

8 years ago
It's Not 'Cute' When Dads Threaten My Son For Dating Their Daughter
While the role of overprotective father is not a new one, it is a tired concept that needs to just die, already. Aside from the assumption that my daughter (yes, I also have daughters) is incapable of good judgment and protecting herself and her standards, this ridiculous concept imagines my sons likewise incapable of the same good judgment and standards. [...] And rationalizing that young men have overwhelming urges that cloud their judgment and force them to make poor decisions regarding young women is nothing more than excusing bad behavior. [...] Above all, realize and come to terms with the fact that teenage sexuality is not a “boy thing.” Teenage sexuality is a teenage thing. Young men and young women alike are going to be curious, interested, and looking to learn more about sex.

This.* Is what I think every time I read the ‘overprotective dad with shotgun’ - or ‘overprotective friends threaten bodily harm if date hurts friend’s feelings’ - trope. Especially in fics in which the people dating are both adults and capable of consenting and of making honestly-intentioned mistakes! It’s not cute and loving; it’s violent and patronizing.

*(Minus the heteronormative focus of the article - but it’s apparently autobiographical, so.) 


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