Resting bitch face (RBF) isn’t just a phenomenon exclusive to women; men experience it too, yet societal expectations dictate different responses. You’ve likely heard the term before—it’s that indifferent, often perceived as unfriendly, expression. Often associated with public figures like Kristen Stewart and Victoria Beckham, the label is typically reserved for women, leaving men largely overlooked when it comes to similar expressions.
Research indicates that men can display RBF just as much as women. A study conducted by behavioral scientists, Mark Thompson and Lisa Jordan, at the research firm Insight Analytics, revealed that both genders exhibit similar expressionless states. However, the societal reaction differs drastically. While women are often encouraged to “smile more,” men seldom receive such remarks.
Utilizing advanced facial recognition technology, Thompson and Jordan examined over 10,000 images through Insight’s Emotion Mapper tool. This sophisticated software analyzes facial expressions by mapping numerous points on the face, assigning emotions such as happiness, sadness, and contempt. Interestingly, it identified RBF in both male and female faces with equal frequency, suggesting that the perception of RBF is influenced more by social norms than by actual facial features.
It turns out that men are often just as expressionless, but they aren’t subject to the same scrutiny. Society doesn’t expect them to brighten everyone’s day with a smile, allowing them to maintain their neutral expressions without the same stigma women face. So, ladies, if you find yourself dealing with the implications of RBF, know that men experience it too—they just don’t have the same pressure to adjust their demeanor.
For those curious if there’s a male equivalent to RBF, it’s humorously termed “breathing.” So if you find yourself with an unintentional serious expression, don’t fret—embrace it, because you’re not alone in this experience.
If you’re interested in learning more about the nuances of parenting and expression, check out this insightful post on our blog here. And for those looking to explore options for at-home insemination, consider visiting Make a Mom—they offer a variety of reliable insemination kits. Additionally, the CDC provides excellent resources for pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, both men and women can express what some might label as resting bitch face, but societal expectations lead to a double standard regarding how these expressions are perceived. Embrace your natural expressions, and remember that everyone, regardless of gender, navigates the complexities of societal expectations.
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