What Does Layered Haircut Mean?

I mean is the hair cut the same for guys with long hair and girls as well? Several of my son's friends said for him to get a layered hairstyle after having worn his hair in a ponytail for so long and want to have shorter hair but shoulder length, not extremely short. Should he go through with getting a layered haircut?

Suggestion:

the hair is cut to look more natural and the edges arent so straight across dont worry it doesnt look weird . it also helps the hair from looking to bulgy. they cut it in different lengths ever so slightly to look more natural right after getting it cut its not weird its just different lenghts in some areas to look like natural growth has occcured but it is actual shorter your hair sorta grows in layers anyway thats why the layered look is more natural it really just brings out the natural layering you already have. most barbers have experience layering and they will cut so it looks like a guys haircut with longer hair. With girls they cut it a little differently to be more female. hair can be layered if its short or long doesnt matter. just flip through some magazines and tell the barber you want the hair long and layered but not girly and you should be fine.