“What Is A ‘Bro Code’ Rule That Women Probably Don't Know Exists?” (54 Answers)

To be fair, the so-called ‘bro code,’ a loose set of guidelines for men interacting with other men, can be wholesome or toxic, depending on how it is used. For example, men who support their family, friends, coworkers, and even strangers when they are struggling with their mental health or a personal crisis should be applauded. However, men who protect each other when it comes to unethical behavior like cheating, lying, violence, etc., are making things worse for everyone, including themselves.

In a nutshell, the ‘bro code’ can be used by men to be brotherly, loyal, honorable, and empathetic. And yet, that same unwritten code can be misused to promote corruption, selfishness, and manipulation.

The issue is not masculinity in itself. The issue is when it is taken to the extreme and becomes harmful to both the men who embody those traits and the people around them. In other words, toxic masculinity is an unbalanced sliver of masculinity, where aggression, toughness, strength, competitiveness, emotional unavailability, and risky behavior are dialed up to the max.

What’s more, toxic men tend to be very promiscuous while also criticizing women for behaving the same way as them. Moreover, they tend to avoid housework, cooking, and childcare, as they see them as ‘unmanly’ instead of basic things that every functioning member of society should be able to do.

Toxic masculinity is a core reason why some men will refuse to see a doctor when their health is failing or a mental health specialist when they are struggling. They believe that they should never show any weakness, ever.

However, there exists a healthy version of masculinity that is the opposite of toxic masculinity that is being promoted by some male influencers and social media gurus.

According to the BBC, some of the main healthy masculine traits are:

1. Authenticity
2. Confidence
3. Kindness
4. Strength
5. Intelligence
6. Supportive and encouraging behavior
7. Honesty about how you feel
8. Being aware of your emotions and those of other people

“Being a boy or a man doesn't mean you need to be defined by or have all of these traits. You should also never feel like you have to follow a set of rules or viewpoints that can hurt you or other people,” the BBC writes.

What are some ‘bro code’ or any other unwritten code rules that you follow to support your friends, family, and the other people close to you in your life? What values should everyone embody?

From your perspective, realistically speaking, what can all men do to embrace healthy masculinity and avoid the more toxic aspects of ‘bro culture’? How can men have each other’s backs when they are in the middle of a serious personal crisis?

Share your thoughts, opinions, and experiences in the comments below. And remember to reach out to the people you love today to let them know that you’re there for them. We can all use that small reminder that someone’s silently looking out for us.