Despite all of the progress that Australian women have made, most of our heroes are still men. Girls quickly figure out that they are unlikely to get all of that affirmation, attention and other rewards that go to the hero.

However, there is another way, that they can get those rewards, by putting themself in the role of the victim. Any girl in any school who appears upset quickly gets surrounded by a support crew. Girls who don't join the support crew get ostracised. The same process occurs (to a smaller extent) among adult women. Many songs, tv shows, movies might also give girls the impression that being a victim is almost part of their gender role.

Ms Bingle may have learned that having a boyfriend who is ...like Mr Fevola will earn them that victimhood.

Disagree benk.

There are many female heroes in Australia especially in the sporting arena. The may not get paid as much as the male sporting stars or gain as much media coverage but there has been a positive increase even on that over the years. More men watch sport so it is natural that men will dominate re hero status.

Women have made a name for themselves in other arenas including science and medicine. Dr Fiona Wood and Professor Fiona Stanley both Australian of the Year recipients. Maggie Beer won senior Australian of the Year in 2010. Sure men still outrank but this is to be expected to some extent while women often take time out of their careers to raise children.

Victimhood is not confined to women particularly in matters to do with Family Law. The rise of men's groups and male support groups have increased over time.

Fact is the victim mentality is not gender exclusive.

Pelican

You disagree with what?

That most of our heroes are male. You'll have trouble winning that one. Despite the changes that you dicussed, most of the roles that bring attention, adulation etc are filled by men. It is unfortunate, but it is still the case. I know it. You know it. Girls figure it out very fast.

You also believe that "the victim mentality is not gender exclusive." Bulldust! There is a marked difference between how society treats different genders who have experienced misfortune. Women are showered with attention and sympathy. Men aren't generally allowed to play the victim. We are told to stop blaming others, stand up on our own two feet and to fix the problem ourselves. That is exactly what the father's groups are doing. No-one ever tells people not to criticise a man, because it is blaming the victim.