Hegemonic masculinity

Definition

Hegemonic masculinity refers to the dominant form of masculinity that is culturally exalted, often associated with traits like authority, control, and aggression. This concept emphasizes how certain masculine norms are upheld as ideal, marginalizing other expressions of masculinity and femininity. It is crucial in understanding the societal power structures that dictate gender roles, influence male behavior, and promote homosocial relationships.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hegemonic masculinity is not just about individual men but represents a collective ideal that shapes societal expectations for all men.
2. This concept highlights how cultural ideals of masculinity can lead to the oppression of women and non-hegemonic masculinities, reinforcing gender inequality.
3. Hegemonic masculinity is often linked to power dynamics in various social institutions, such as politics, education, and the workplace.
4. Media representations play a significant role in perpetuating hegemonic masculinity by glorifying certain male traits while sidelining others.
5. The notion of hegemonic masculinity can change over time and may vary across different cultures, reflecting shifts in societal values and power relations.

Review Questions

• How does hegemonic masculinity manifest in contemporary society, and what impact does it have on individual men's behavior?
  • Hegemonic masculinity manifests through societal expectations that encourage men to display traits like competitiveness, emotional stoicism, and dominance. These behaviors often pressure individual men to conform to an idealized version of masculinity, leading them to suppress vulnerability or empathy. As a result, many men might struggle with mental health issues due to the stigma around expressing emotions or seeking help, ultimately impacting their relationships and overall well-being.
• Discuss the relationship between hegemonic masculinity and gender roles within various social institutions.
  • Hegemonic masculinity plays a crucial role in shaping gender roles across social institutions such as the workplace, education system, and family dynamics. In these contexts, dominant masculine norms can privilege men over women, perpetuating inequality in leadership positions or educational achievements. For example, workplaces may favor aggressive competition often associated with hegemonic masculinity, making it challenging for alternative styles of leadership or collaboration to emerge.
• Evaluate the implications of hegemonic masculinity on homosocial relationships among men and how these relationships reinforce societal norms.
  • Hegemonic masculinity deeply influences homosocial relationships among men by creating spaces where traditional masculine norms are celebrated and enforced. These relationships often involve camaraderie based on shared interests like sports or work but can also foster environments where emotional vulnerability is discouraged. This dynamic reinforces societal norms by promoting a version of masculinity that excludes non-conforming identities, thus maintaining existing power structures while marginalizing alternative masculinities.

Related terms

Toxic Masculinity: A cultural concept that describes harmful behaviors and attitudes associated with traditional male norms, such as aggression, emotional repression, and dominance over others.

Gender Norms: Socially constructed roles and expectations that dictate how individuals should behave based on their perceived gender, often reinforcing traditional ideas of masculinity and femininity.

Homosociality: Non-sexual same-gender relationships that are characterized by social bonds among men, often reinforcing masculine norms and practices.