Hegemonic masculinity

Definition

Hegemonic masculinity refers to the dominant form of masculinity that is culturally exalted and sets the standard for what is considered 'real' manhood. It promotes ideals such as authority, control, and aggression while marginalizing other expressions of masculinity and femininity. This concept is crucial for understanding how gender roles and power dynamics shape social interactions and identities across various global contexts.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hegemonic masculinity is often linked to societal norms that equate masculinity with strength, competitiveness, and heterosexuality.
2. It influences various spheres of life including media representations, workplace dynamics, and interpersonal relationships, reinforcing traditional gender roles.
3. Men who do not conform to hegemonic masculinity may face social stigma or violence, illustrating the rigid boundaries of acceptable male behavior.
4. The concept was introduced by sociologist R.W. Connell in the 1980s and has since become a key framework for analyzing gender relations.
5. Hegemonic masculinity varies across cultures and can be influenced by factors such as race, class, and sexuality, making it a dynamic and complex construct.

Review Questions

• How does hegemonic masculinity shape social interactions among different genders?
  • Hegemonic masculinity establishes a standard that promotes certain behaviors as desirable for men while marginalizing alternative masculinities and femininities. This creates power imbalances in social interactions where men may feel pressured to exhibit dominance or aggression to align with societal expectations. As a result, women and non-conforming individuals often experience oppression or exclusion, reinforcing traditional gender roles within relationships.
• Discuss the relationship between hegemonic masculinity and toxic masculinity in contemporary society.
  • Hegemonic masculinity underpins the notion of toxic masculinity by setting harmful ideals that define what it means to be a 'real man.' Toxic masculinity encourages behaviors such as emotional suppression, aggression, and dominance over others. These ideals lead to negative consequences not only for those who are marginalized but also for men themselves, as they may feel compelled to conform to these standards at the expense of their emotional well-being and healthy relationships.
• Evaluate the impact of globalization on the concept of hegemonic masculinity and its expressions around the world.
  • Globalization has facilitated the spread of Western ideals of hegemonic masculinity while also allowing local interpretations to emerge in different cultural contexts. This can lead to a clash between traditional masculine norms and modern expectations shaped by global media and economic structures. While some societies may adopt new forms of masculinity that challenge traditional norms, others might reinforce them in reaction to perceived threats from globalization. The result is a complex interplay where hegemonic masculinity is both reinforced and contested globally.

Related terms

patriarchy: A social system in which men hold primary power, dominating in roles of political leadership, moral authority, and control over property.

toxic masculinity: Cultural norms around manhood that emphasize dominance, aggression, and emotional suppression, often leading to harmful behaviors for both men and women.

gender performativity: The concept that gender identity is constructed through repeated social performances rather than being an inherent quality.