Galloping...

Dr Geoff Gallop – a brave person.

Following up our recent comments on the media’s expectations of public figures carrying out their public profile and gender identity back to their private sphere, some other recent events come to mind.

I think it is a gender stereotype that males don’t cry – they shouldn’t be too open with their emotions for fear of any condemnation that might follow…these pressures seem to seriously effect those in the public spotlight.

This week, with Dr Geoff Gallop retiring from politics, and doing so in such an open and honest way, Gallop almost shocked the media with his brave honesty with his fight with depression. Many prominent figures have stated that it might end up being the single most important thing Gallop ever does in his career. (see Kennett)…

We saw the way the media condemned and burnt John Brogden, and Mark Latham. We have also seen the way Steve Rogers had battled with depression and didn’t feel he could talk about it because of his public reputation (see Matt Rogers)

So many prominent celebrities and public figures struggle with their identity as a prominent figure in society, and who they really are underneath those masks…Gallop broke down those masks and was honest with the public how he was feeling underneath.

This is an extremely hard thing for males to publicly show in society – an openness and willingness to adapt to what they feel. Russell Crowe in some respects has started to be honest publicly about how he feels inside – his problems with anger, and emotions.

Perhaps this new wave of honesty will serve as an inspiration for other males throughout society who might be given the confidence and will to accept what their feelings are saying – and maybe once they do that, the media might follow.