The ‘Stiff Upper Lip’ Mentality

What does this term mean to you?

My parents were both Stiff Upper Lippers.
We were all born in England with this mindset and I’ve never quite understood it.

Why are certain emotions not to be expressed like ‘love’ but anger and hatred are perfectly ok to express fully?

Why is expressing love considered to be so evil?

I remember Princess Diana being so confused by this. Her hurt and pain were clearly seen by everyone else around the world as well as the reason why , yet she was expected to “suck it up buttercup.’

Is this ‘stiff upper lip’ mentality outdated and do you think it’s one that should change?

What do you think about it?

Re: The ‘Stiff Upper Lip’ Mentality

I think it's an important thing to learn to do really. When Grace had a stroke we both put on that stiff upper lip stance so we didn't break down in front of her. Crying is important but not if it will worry the patient IMO

Re: The ‘Stiff Upper Lip’ Mentality

I approve of the British stiff upper lip. Showing emotion in public is to be avoided, if at all possible, imo. I hate seeing the male of the species cry. I am glad my husband has never cried in public, and hardly ever in private.

Re: The ‘Stiff Upper Lip’ Mentality

Men should cry too IMO It's just as important they have that release as women do. Too many male suicides fueled by the need not to show any emotion.

Re: The ‘Stiff Upper Lip’ Mentality

Man hugs make me cringe!

Re: The ‘Stiff Upper Lip’ Mentality

I totally agree with this Julie.
It all depends on circumstances.

Re: The ‘Stiff Upper Lip’ Mentality

The problem is that often that stiff upper lip is stationed above a loose flabby chin.

Re: The ‘Stiff Upper Lip’ Mentality

You been looking at me again Bruce

Re: The ‘Stiff Upper Lip’ Mentality

I have a lump inside my upper lip, it makes it hard to do.

Re: The ‘Stiff Upper Lip’ Mentality

stiff upper lip so old hat imo -- more for the upper class of society ' we was given emotions so use them ' men cry same as women indoors out doors does it matter ' its what u do in grief ..