Final answer:
Dylan has withdrawn to cope with his father's passing, a behavior that may reflect societal expectations of how men should handle emotional stress. Men often retreat into solitude or activities to process feelings alone, as influenced by societal pressure to maintain a strong facade in face of hardships.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student's question asks to fill in the blank with the manner in which Dylan's behavior can be typically described. Dylan's father has just passed away, and despite having an overwhelming list of tasks ahead of him, including taking care of his mother and preparing the house for sale, Dylan has withdrawn by choosing to go hiking for the day. This behavior could reflect a common response where men might cope with stress or sorrow by seeking solitude or engaging in an activity that allows them time to process their feelings alone.
Throughout life, men are often taught that they need to become a father, take care of extended family matters, and provide for others. The examples given show how men sometimes handle emotions or stressful events with stoicism or retreating into activities that they feel are within their control, indicating a societal pressure to maintain a strong facade.
Whether it is an aging man retreating from social life after his wife's death or Dylan finding refuge in nature, it is clear that some men might display tendencies of withdrawal when faced with emotional hardships. This can be a coping mechanism influenced by societal expectations on how men 'should' deal with emotions and responsibilities.