Hegemonic Masculinity
This term refers to the dominant form of masculinity that is culturally idealized in a society
Hegemonic masculinity
This term refers to harmful behaviors and attitudes traditionally associated with masculinity, like aggression, emotional repression and dominance
Toxic Masculinity
Men are more likely to experience this mental health issue, often in silence, due to societal expectations of strength and emotional restraint
Depression
This actor is often associated with portraying tough, macho characters like James Bond, shaping the image of masculinity in Hollywood for decades
Sean Connery
This term refers to societal norms that dictate how individuals should behave based on their gender
Gender roles
Hegemonic masculinity often upholds male dominance in this broader system
Patriarchy
Toxic masculinity often discourages men from expressing this emotion, which is seen as a sign of weakness
Vulnerability
Men are less likely to seek help for mental health issues because of this cultural belief about masculinity
Stigma around vulnerability or asking for help
This popular TV show, featuring characters like Don Draper, explores traditional ideas of masculinity in the 1960s, often highlighting the emotional struggles of male characters
Mad Men
This concept refers to the expectations that men should be the primary breadwinners and women should be the primary caregivers in many cultures
Traditional gender division of labor
Men who do not conform to hegemonic masculinity, such as those who are gay or show vulnerability, are often subjected to this
Marginalization
This type of pressure from society often encourages men to conform to rigid standards of toxic masculinity, leading to stress and mental health issues
Gender role socialization
This mental health condition, often linked to trauma, is more commonly diagnosed in men who struggle to express their emotions
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
This 1999 film, starring Edward Norton and Brad Pitt, critiques traditional masculinity by exploring themes of consumerism, violence and identity.
Fight Club
This social movement, which gained momentum in the 20th century, challenged traditional gender roles and advocated for equal rights for women
Feminism
This type of theory critiques hegemonic masculinity for reinforcing gender norms and limiting both male and female identities
Feminist theory
Toxic masculinity can contribute to this social issue, where men feel entitled to dominate or harm others, especially in relationships
Gender-based violence
Men are at higher risk for this behavior, which is often linked to untreated mental health issues like anxiety and depression
Substance abuse
In the 2010s, this superhero movie character, portrayed by Chris Hemsworth, challenges traditional masculinity by blending strength with humor and vulnerability
Thor
In many cultures, boys are often encouraged to be tough, competitive and emotionless due to this gender expectation
Socialization of masculinity
This theory highlights the exclusion of non-binary and fluid gender identities, critiquing the rigidity of hegemonic masculinity
Critics of toxic masculinity argue that it reinforces a narrow view of what it means to be a man, ultimately harming both men and those around them, including through higher rates of this
Suicide and mental health
Research suggests that this group of men, often facing cultural pressure, is more likely to experience severe mental health issues, including suicide
Young men or men in high-stress occupations
This 2018 film subverts traditional masculinity through its portrayal of a more sensitive and emotionally complex male lead, played by Timothée Chalamet
Call me by your Name
This psychological theory, developed by gender scholars like Judith Butler, argues that gender is not biologically determined but is a social construct performed through everyday actions
Gender performativity