Aedrienne,
I think your comments on "teasing" are right on. I grew up with boys and
endured (and gave back) a lot of teasing; only a very small amount of it was
truly harmless, and most of it was really quite vicious. Teasing among
children often leads to fist-fights, and is really just an expression of
childhood fury. I also agree that in encouraging or allowing boys to
unmercifully tease girls, especially where their bodies are concerned, a
message is being sent that they are dominators allowed to discipline women.
Girls can tease quite cruelly too, though, and it is all a reflection of the
pressure to be "normal." Which is bullshit! "Fun" teasing never causes pain,
it's a mutual (and sexual) game between equals.
Thanks for your comments,
Jane
