This paper argues that changes to the original definition of the disidentification process are in order, including reconceptualizing the restrictive gender role behaviors from boyhood onward as an early form of gender role conflict. It is further suggested that the disidentification process consequentially harms the development and functioning of the masculine self. One may react to this process (the emotional residual of the disindentification process) by adopting one of two masculine stances in relating to self and others. One stance is characterized as moving away from self and others. This may appear as the adoption of many of the stereotypical male gender roles. The other stance is one of moving toward others in an overly dependent fashion where the affect residual of disindentification is dealt with through turning to others to help modulate its effects. Two case studies are presented.
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