Maren Morris claps back at gender norms while raising emotionally aware son

Maren Morris opened up about parenting, gender norms, and why she believes young boys shouldn’t be forced into outdated definitions of masculinity.

The 35-year-old singer shared a candid TikTok video on April 5, recalling a recent conversation with a male acquaintance that quickly turned tense.

At the heart of the discussion was how she is raising her six-year-old son, Hayes, and her refusal to subscribe to the idea that boys need to “toughen up.”

According to Morris, the exchange escalated after she challenged everyday gender stereotypes, pointing out how limiting beliefs often begin in childhood — from who can like certain colors to what interests are considered “appropriate” for boys or girls.

She emphasized that such notions are learned early, often through school or peers, but can be unlearned just as quickly with guidance.

The situation took a sharper turn when the man dismissed her concerns, insisting that boys should be tougher. Morris admitted the comment initially angered her, but she chose to respond calmly, standing firm in her parenting approach.

Instead, the Grammy winner said her focus is on raising a child who can understand and manage his emotions. She described Hayes as both gentle and expressive — someone who enjoys baseball and musicals alike, and who currently loves Hamilton.

From painting his nails to making friendship bracelets, Morris said her son is encouraged to explore his interests freely without fear of judgment.

“He’s a person,” she stressed in the video, underscoring that children should never be shamed for self-expression — something she believes is central to a healthy upbringing.

Morris also highlighted her son’s ability to emotionally regulate, noting that he can identify when he’s overwhelmed and take space to process his feelings — a skill she pointed out was notably absent in the man she was debating.

The singer credited her support system — including strong women and emotionally aware men — for helping her raise Hayes in a more open and accepting environment.

She added that previous generations often taught boys to suppress all emotions except anger, but she sees signs of change.

Reflecting on the experience, Morris said the encounter ultimately left her feeling hopeful.

Observing her son and his peers, she believes the next generation is being raised with greater emotional awareness and freedom from rigid gender roles.

Morris shares Hayes with her ex-husband, Ryan Hurd. The former couple married in 2018 after first collaborating on music in 2013, and finalized their divorce in January 2024.