Masculinity

Gender Identity: Understanding the concept of gender identity is crucial when studying masculinity as it plays a significant role in how we perceive and perform gender.

Patriarchy: Patriarchy refers to a social system in which men hold more power and authority than women. Understanding patriarchy is essential in exploring how it impacts both men and women, and how it shapes our understanding of masculinity.

Hegemonic Masculinity: This term refers to the dominant form of masculinity in a particular culture or society. It is the construction of the idealized or “normal” masculine identity that men strive to achieve.

Toxic Masculinity: This term refers to the harmful aspects of traditional masculinity that can lead to violence, aggression, and disregard for the well-being of others.

Gender Roles: Understanding the concept of gender roles is crucial to understanding masculinity. Gender roles refer to the behaviors, attitudes, and expectations associated with being male or female.

Emotions and Masculinity: Traditional masculinity has placed a premium on suppressing emotions, particularly those that are considered feminine. Exploring how men’s emotional lives are shaped by gender norms and expectations is a critical aspect of studying masculinity.

Masculinity and Violence: Masculinity has traditionally been associated with strength, dominance, and aggression. Understanding how these ideals shape men’s use of violence is a crucial aspect of studying masculinity.

Homophobia and Masculinity: Homophobia is often used as a way of policing masculinity, particularly among men who are perceived as falling outside of traditional gender norms.

Masculinity and Health: Traditional masculinity ideals often discourage men from seeking help when they need it or engaging in healthy behaviors. Understanding the impact of traditional masculinity on men’s overall health and well-being is crucial.

Masculinity and Culture: Masculinity is shaped by cultural contexts and can vary significantly across different societies, making it important to explore how cultural norms and expectations shape masculine identities.

Traditional Masculinity: This is the most common type of masculinity that refers to the traditional roles expected of men as breadwinners and protectors of the family. Traditional masculinity is often associated with toughness, aggression, and competitiveness.

Hegemonic Masculinity: Hegemonic masculinity is the dominant form of masculinity that is seen as the norm in a given society. It is often associated with power, dominance, and control over others, and is usually reinforced through cultural norms and structures.

Complicit Masculinity: This type of masculinity refers to men who benefit from hegemonic masculinity and may be complicit in perpetuating it. Complicit masculinity is often characterized by a reluctance to challenge existing gender norms and a desire to maintain the status quo.

Subordinate Masculinity: This refers to men who occupy marginalized positions within society and who may be subject to gender-based discrimination or violence. Subordinate masculinity is often associated with characteristics such as vulnerability, weakness, and submissiveness.

LGBTQ+ Masculinity: This type of masculinity is specific to men who identify as gay, bisexual, or transgender. It is often less concerned with conforming to traditional gender roles and may be characterized by creativity, fluidity, and resistance to gender binaries.

Hybrid Masculinity: This type of masculinity combines elements of traditional masculinity with elements of other masculinities such as LGBTQ+ masculinity or feminist masculinity. Hybrid masculinity is often associated with a commitment to gender equality and a rejection of rigid gender roles.

Feminist Masculinity: This refers to men who actively challenge the norms of traditional masculinity and strive to promote gender equality. Feminist masculinity is characterized by traits such as empathy, vulnerability, and a willingness to challenge one's own assumptions and behaviors.