Comedian and writer Jenny Jaffe recently sparked a conversation that many women can relate to. In a viral Twitter thread, she recounted her experiences with aspiring male TV writers who seem to think they know better—despite her professional background in the industry. One would assume that those looking to break into television would regard established figures as mentors, but not these guys.
Jaffe, known for her work on IFC’s Neurotica and her advocacy for mental health, expressed disbelief at the unfounded bravado that frequently accompanies “The Condescending Male.” It’s almost as if there should be a scientific exploration of the “mansplaining” section of the brain. Her tweet resonated with countless women, prompting them to share their own jaw-dropping stories of being talked down to.
Oh, the sweet irony! Women are often reminded to meet the lofty expectations of men, even if those men are complete strangers on the internet. The classic line, “You’re good at x, for a girl,” is as uninspired as it is condescending. It’s fascinating how some men feel empowered to vocalize ridiculous stereotypes without a second thought. And to add a personal note, my partner tends to pack only the bare essentials for trips—a single pair of underwear and a stick of deodorant—so forgive me if I roll my eyes at clueless “Scout Dads.”
And let’s be clear: unless a man is a certified lactation consultant, unsolicited advice on breastfeeding is unnecessary. Just don’t.
To all men who engage in this behavior: offering unwanted guidance or condescension does not make you “helpful.” It’s astonishing that accomplished women often grapple with feelings of imposter syndrome, while many men exude confidence without hesitation. This stark contrast creates a challenging environment, leading women to develop various coping strategies just to navigate these conversations.
Why do we do it? Because we have to. It’s simply how it is.
If you’re interested in more relatable insights and experiences, you can check out our other posts, such as the fertility booster for men or the Cryobaby at-home insemination kit. For those exploring pregnancy options, this resource on the IVF process is quite informative.
In summary, Jaffe’s Twitter thread and the stories it inspired highlight the pervasive issue of mansplaining, showcasing how many women endure this patronizing behavior. The responses serve as a reminder of the confidence gap that exists between genders, and the necessity for women to develop coping mechanisms in the face of such condescension.
Keyphrase: mansplaining experiences
Tags: [“home insemination kit” “home insemination syringe” “self insemination”]