It's called "normative male alexythymia." In ordinary language, this refers to the common occurrence in men of a difficulty recognizing and processing certain emotions - particularly the vulnerable ones (fear, hurt, shame, embarrassment, rejection, uncertainty, loneliness, etc.). It sounds worse than it is. Fortunately, a recent movement in psychology, A New Psychology of Men, spearheaded by psychologists such as Ron Levant, has introduced a treatment protocol to help men improve their capacity to recognize and communicate in a deeper and richer emotional 'language.' It starts by working on literally expanded their vocabulary of words which describe emotions. From their it moves to learning how to recognize these emotions in themselves and others, and finally, how to communicate them to others. Men embrace the protocol because it is doable.
Often, men come to therapy because someone (a loved one or an employer) tells them that they have to get help or else. But, once in the therapist's office, they really don't know what to do next. Men like this protocol because it is easy to understand, it is structured, and they will feel mastery around the tasks assigned. It's not unlike the process of going to the local hardware store referenced in my posting, Men and Intimacy - Part I. To get started with this protocol, visit us at http://www.heritageprofessional.com/ .
