The Importance of Positive Reinforcement: A Heartfelt Comic on Men's Mental Health

Chloe Whisperwillow

Updated Saturday, September 14, 2024 at 12:00 AM CDT

In a compelling three-panel comic, a profound conversation unfolds between two male characters, shedding light on a significant yet often overlooked issue – the lack of positive reinforcement men receive in adulthood. This comic, set against a serene night sky and lush greenery, captures a heartfelt exchange that resonates deeply with many.

**Top Panel:**

Under a starlit sky, a young man with short, dark hair and a gentle expression seeks wisdom from an older figure. The text reads, "Got any fatherly advice for me?"

**Middle Panel:**

The scene shifts slightly, revealing more of the outdoor setting, possibly near a house. The young man, now seen from behind, listens intently as the older man with a stern expression and gray hair imparts his wisdom. The older man's thoughtful words are captured in the text: "Once they hit adulthood, men rarely get positive reinforcement."

**Bottom Panel:**

Continuing their conversation, the older man's serious demeanor underscores the gravity of his advice. The text in this panel provides a powerful message: "So if you see a random guy wearing a shirt that you like, tell him you like his shirt. If a friend is having a rough time, give him a hug. Those small moments of positive reinforcement will carry men great distances, and they will never forget them."

This comic beautifully highlights the importance of acknowledging and appreciating the men around us. A simple compliment or a supportive gesture can have a lasting impact, offering much-needed emotional support. Many people have shared similar sentiments in various comments:

- One user recalls a woman complimenting his long hair on a bus twelve years ago, a memory he still cherishes.

- Another shares how complimenting a coworker's shirt made a significant difference, reinforcing the positive effects of such gestures.

- A heartfelt story from a 42-year-old man who received flowers from his wife after showing her a touching comic about men and flowers showcases the profound emotional impact of thoughtful acts.

These anecdotes and the comic itself remind everyone of the power of positive reinforcement. A genuine compliment or a supportive hug can provide much-needed emotional sustenance, particularly for men who may not receive such affirmations regularly. Embracing and practicing these small acts of kindness can foster a more supportive and emotionally healthy environment for all.

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View source: Imgur

Top Comments from Imgur

TheRowsdowermobile

About 12 years ago when I had long hair a woman complemented it on the bus. I still think about that sometimes.

Aksuuuh

The amount of times I've complimented other guy's shirt directly correlates with the times I've been wearing the exact same shirt.

ragingzealot

Hug your bros, sit close enough that your shoulders touch, literally pat each other on the back, if your bro's hair is wonky help him straighten it. At the bare minimum don't mock other dudes for doing so. Men are touch starved because we're so afraid of being accused of being gay that we deprive ourselves of an essential human need that women provide each other all the time and it is having disastrous effects on our mental health.

TheUnnamedPoet

My room mate and I have been friends since we were 13. To this day I tell him "You are my friend.. You are my brother... I will always pick you up when you fall.... After I'm done laughing."

Littledirtybirdyfeet

I think this is true of everyone regardless of gender. As a mom, I get no positive reinforcement. Looking for help when mothering is difficult gets met with "you chose this" well f***... The "positive reinforcement" women get is if they look good and that dries up fast with age. Best advice to both men and women, don't seek and rely on outside validation. Validate yourself. Do some daily affirmations. You're worthy. You're capable. You got this.

VashTehStampede

My wife bought me flowers a few days after I showed her a comic of a kid asking his dad when men get flowers and then the dad thought about funerals. I teared up. It's the first time, and I'm 42.

aworkoffiction

I make a point of complimenting the people that work for me because of the compliments I can still remember from my boss. “Here comes the best decision I ever made” - boss. It’s hands down going to carry me forever.

InfocalypseRising

I went through a drive thru last week and the dude had this silver skull ring on. I said "by the way man your ring is dope" as I drove off and the dude looked completely flabbergasted

Mansooratyale

A female friend complimented me by saying: "you look cool" three days ago. I am still enjoying the serotonin of that compliment today

InoffensivePablum

I am in my fifties. I wear short shorts a pink boonie hat and have a very, very manly salt-and-pepper beard. Every week I can expect at least two women to compliment my hat, with the occasional man either admiring my style or mocking my choice. Gay men love the beard but, oddly, so do the older ladies. Many young women treat me like their fathers. About every 4 or 5 trips to the Walmart neighborhood market, black women make suggestive comments about my legs.