masculinity
Last updatedDefinition
Masculinity refers to the set of attributes and behaviors traditionally associated with men and boys. The term is often used to describe degree (i.e., how masculine or “manly” someone or something is). Examples of traditionally “masculine” traits are short hair, muscularity, or “toughness.” While many qualities of masculinity have been constructed within a patriarchal power structure, masculinity itself is not inherently negative or positive and has no fixed meaning. Masculine, or “masc,” is also a way queer people who exhibit behavior that is traditonally associated with men may refer to themselves and, in some cases, to one another (e.g., a masc lesbian).
Certain negative manifestations of masculinity can be described as toxic masculinity, which can result in valorizing physical and mental “toughness,” suppressing emotion, violence as a precursor to power, internalizing misogyny, or being homophobic. Specifying the actions or behaviors being described and the context in which they occurred can clarify the meaning and impact of toxic masculinity.
The men’s rights movement — a product of toxic masculinity and a backlash to progress in the movement for gender equality — argues that men are the victims of gender-based discrimination and attempts to address this supposed discrimination. The movement’s rhetoric and actions have become increasingly aggressive in recent years, with members of the movement engaging in gender-based violence (or the promotion thereof). Using precise language to describe the beliefs and aims of the men’s rights movement can help avoid conflating it with movements that support gender equality and the liberation of marginalized genders.
An online subculture associated with the men’s rights movement is made up of those who self-identify as “incels,” or “involuntary celibates.” This view is rooted in misogyny and male supremacy (and sometimes white supremacy); it rejects the sexual agency of women and has inspired acts of real-life gender-based violence. Not quoting or linking directly to hate speech reflecting this view avoids amplifying its messages.
Additional resources
- APA issues first-ever guidelines for practice with men and boys (American Psychological Association)
- Raising Boys With a Broader Definition of Masculinity (The Atlantic)
Summary
Masculinity refers to the set of attributes and behaviors traditionally associated with men and boys. While many qualities of masculinity have been constructed within a patriarchal power structure, masculinity itself is not inherently negative or positive and has no fixed meaning. Certain negative manifestations of masculinity can be described as toxic masculinity, which can result in valorizing physical and mental “toughness,” suppressing emotion, violence as a precursor to power, internalizing misogyny, or being homophobic. Specifying the actions or behaviors being described and the context in which they occurred can clarify the meaning and impact of toxic masculinity.