Throughout history, men have often disregarded women’s hobbies as frivolous or unimportant. This attitude can be seen in various aspects of society, from the workplace to personal relationships. Women’s interests are often dismissed as being less valuable or interesting than those of men. Or, if a woman has a “male interest,” they are not seen as someone who truly enjoys said hobby. Many believe that the woman is just looking for male attention. Although the snickers and sly comments from men about women’s interests are to blame, the true enemy is the patriarchal society.

Typically, within the past, women were often expected to prioritize their families and household duties, while men could pursue their passions with no disregard. The gender role of women only having domestic responsibilities has led to societal expectations, furthermore, leading to the lack of interest and support from men. 

One reason for this may be that traditionally male-dominated activities, such as sports and video games, are seen as more important and worthy of attention. While “girly” or women-dominated hobbies are seen as weak or emasculating, such as knitting or reading. For example, jokes about the WNBA being not as important as the NBA or men making misogynistic jokes to women while they play video games. However, women who enjoy male-dominated activities may be viewed as trying to fit into a male-dominated world rather than pursuing their own interests. Denoting the idea that women only live to seek out male attention. 

Within male-dominated hobbies, many women are discriminated against. Especially hobbies surrounding music, video games and even “movie buffs.” 

“One time, this guy got genuinely upset with me because I said I liked ‘American Psycho’ and ‘Drive’ because, as a woman I couldn’t like them the right way,” junior Lilly Burgess said. 

More often than men, women are placed in situations where they are berated with questions from men about their hobbies. If a man, typically older, sees a teenage girl wearing a “Nirvana,” “Led Zeppelin,” or any other band shirt, she may be asked the question, “Do you even know who that is?” “Name three songs.” The entitlement of older men in the music genre is nothing short of toxic. 

“Yes, I have been discriminated against by a man for my hobby of music. When I go to the guitar store, they treat me differently than my dad. They treat me like I’ve never heard of a guitar before,” Shaler student Lainey Shipman said. 

The taboo “battle of the sexes” when it comes down to hobbies is purely patriarchal, the idea that women should primarily focus on the needs at the house, while men strive for what is important to them has tainted society as a whole. The infection of the patriarchy has truly gone so far that interests are now looked down upon. Now, within society, it is utterly foolish to say there are “men’s” hobbies and “women’s” hobbies, and on top of that, decipher which is more valuable. It is important for both men and women to recognize value within each other’s interest and, or hobbies. By this, it ensures a more inclusive and fulfilling society.