Another Gurian Thread -- Independence

[rainmaker]

Originally posted by Oz Referee
[B]Although boys generally have a greater desire for independance, I would argue that boys are generally more willing to let go of that independance to become part of the group. Look at fraternities, gangs, the military and team sports - all these areas basically demand that the individual cease to exist when they become a part of the group - and these groups are largely dominated by males.

You are right in line with what Gurian talks about, because the next thread I post on this subject will be about men in groups -- men are more likely to run in larger groups, such as gangs, or military troops, but have to balance that off with the need to have a sense of self-reliance and independence. The need for a strong individuality is still there, even in the group, and needs to be constantly re-asserted. He says that our society has over emphasized the rugged-individualism aspect of male nature which makes men tend to feel lonely and isolated, which leads them to unhealthy practices such as substance abuse, violence and destructive irresponsibility. He thinks we need to emphasize the "tribe" so that men can have the kind of groups they need to balance off the independence.