In recent years, the term “mansplaining” has sparked extensive discussion, with some arguing it has lost its meaning due to overuse, while others claim it’s too narrow. However, the essence of the word remains significant, even if its boundaries are hard to define.
At its core, mansplaining occurs when a man assumes a woman needs something explained—often unnecessarily—regardless of her actual knowledge. This behavior can stem from condescension or cluelessness; it can be overtly sexist or simply a product of ingrained societal norms. Not all who mansplain are ill-intentioned, but some certainly embody that stereotype. Ultimately, it represents a wider issue of gender dynamics, often encapsulated by the collective sighs of women everywhere.
For example, while I was at a local event, a man approached my colleague, Lisa, and asked for a poem about Richard Nixon. He then launched into an extensive explanation of Nixon’s history, completely disregarding her expertise. At another gathering, a gentleman insisted that I couldn’t possibly write a Star Wars poem because, apparently, my gender precludes a grasp of science fiction. These men were friendly but oblivious to their own offensiveness. They were shocked when we tried to explain that, gender aside, women are quite capable of understanding the broader world.
Here’s a practical guide for my fellow women when faced with such condescension, including when men attempt to dismiss the concept of mansplaining itself.
Scenario 1:
You seek book recommendations from friends, and a mansplainer responds with a lengthy history of literature before suggesting a title.
MANSPLAINER: “I wasn’t being condescending; I was just answering your question.”
YOU: “Providing a suggestion would look like this: ‘Here are a few books I enjoyed that you might like.’ Instead, you offered a lecture on the nature of books, implying I need to be educated on the topic.”
Scenario 2:
During a conversation about mansplaining, a man interjects.
MAN: “But women can be just as guilty of over-explaining! I know how to change a diaper, too.”
YOU: “While anyone can exhibit condescension, women experience this much more frequently. Womansplaining isn’t a recognized phenomenon in the same way, as it doesn’t stem from systemic sexism.”
Scenario 3:
A man feels hurt after being labeled a mansplainer.
MAN: “I wasn’t implying you’re less intelligent; I was just trying to explain how to jumpstart a car, for your safety.”
YOU: “I appreciate your concern, but I didn’t ask how it works. Your assumption that I lack knowledge reinforces societal beliefs that women know less, contributing to broader issues of inequality.”
Scenario 4:
A mansplainer dismisses your concerns.
MANSPLAINER: “I don’t think mansplaining is real. If you’d just accept that we’re trying to help, we’d all get along better.”
YOU: [Resist the urge to react violently and calmly explain the situation instead.]
In navigating these conversations, it’s crucial to remain assertive and articulate your thoughts clearly. For more on navigating parenthood and beyond, check out our post on at-home insemination kits. For expert insights, visit Jamie Johnson, Nurse Practitioner, who offers valuable perspectives on related topics. If you’re interested in pregnancy options, Healthline provides excellent resources to help guide your journey.
In summary, understanding and addressing mansplaining requires a blend of assertiveness and clarity. By communicating effectively, we can challenge condescension and foster more respectful exchanges.