Date:12/05/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/05/12/stories/2006051213510200.htm

Karnataka - Bangalore

Men are handling new roles with ease

Special Correspondent

`They are beginning to take the father role more seriously'

All men are not clumsy in the kitchen as the popular notion goes
Men do have a tendency to pick a quarrel more frequently than women

It is a leftover from the days when men were hunters and women remained home, looking after children

Bangalore: Are men naturally more aggressive than women and more prone to violent outbursts? Most of those involved in violent incidents of crime across the world happen to be men, but this does not mean that all of them are aggressive, says psycho therapist Sunanda Murthy.

Men do have a tendency to pick a quarrel more frequently than women and it is a leftover from the days when men were hunters and women remained home, taking care of children. While the "mothering instinct" is strong in most women, men are beginning to take their father role more seriously.

Sports activities and driving have replaced the the hunting role among men. Their energies are now spared for being (part- time) home-makers too.

"All men are not sloppy or clumsy in the kitchen as popular notion goes. Just look around and see how most famous chefs are men. Other men have become successful fashion designers, and many are in the creative and entertainment professions. Too much has been made of the older image of men who would rather watch a boxing match or Formula One racing than help with household chores,'' says Dr. Murthy. There are subtle differences when it comes to domestic work. A man feels more comfortable with the intricacies of a microwave oven or the latest washing machines than chopping vegetables. Repairing gadgets ranging from a blender to a steam iron comes naturally to most of them. Of course, it suits their wives just fine.

"Male bonding" is another issue magazine articles and TV shows are now paying more attention to. Men rib each other and call each other names and then burst out laughing together, shake hands and become good friends. This is something women find strange.

For, women friends will never dream of saying anything nasty about each other, even as a joke. "Men have traditionally fought over territory, often trying the grab the best hunting grounds. And, once having established those territorial demarcations, got along well with each other. This can still be seen today. Each respect the other's strengths and feel equal. Among women, both feel the urge to prove she can bake a better cake than the other and the rivalry may run deep,'' says Dr Murthy.