Heterosexual men commonly prefer the company of other men, in preference to the women with whom they may be romantically involved. This phenomenon is readily visible in the work environment, and graphically illustrated in recreational pursuits like drinking, gambling, and especially sports. Men's preference for men is based on a combination of positive identifications with father figures and childhood friends and a terror of submission to helpless dependence on mother figures and other women. An almost universal fear of confrontation with inherent bisexuality dictates indirect expression of male-to-male intimacy. This is frequently in the form of activities culturally associated with masculinity and that affirm an often fragile sense of heterosexuality.