Hegemonic masculinity

Definition

Hegemonic masculinity refers to the dominant form of masculinity that is culturally exalted and holds power in a given society. It embodies ideals such as strength, assertiveness, and heterosexuality, often marginalizing other masculinities and femininities. This concept helps explain how gender roles are constructed and maintained, influencing the way men and women are represented in various media forms.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hegemonic masculinity is often presented through media representations that glorify male dominance and power, reinforcing traditional gender roles.
2. This form of masculinity can lead to the exclusion and marginalization of other masculinities, such as those exhibited by gay men or men who do not conform to traditional masculine traits.
3. The concept of hegemonic masculinity was developed by sociologist R.W. Connell in the 1990s as part of her research on gender relations.
4. Hegemonic masculinity can contribute to societal issues like gender-based violence, as it establishes norms that normalize aggressive behavior among men.
5. Understanding hegemonic masculinity is crucial for analyzing how gender inequalities persist in various aspects of society, including politics, education, and media.

Review Questions

• How does hegemonic masculinity influence gender representation in media?
  • Hegemonic masculinity shapes gender representation in media by prioritizing portrayals of men that align with dominant ideals of strength, dominance, and heterosexuality. This often results in stereotypical images of men that reinforce traditional gender roles while sidelining alternative masculinities or representations of women. The consistent depiction of these masculine ideals contributes to the normalization of certain behaviors and attitudes in society.
• In what ways does hegemonic masculinity intersect with issues like toxic masculinity and gender norms?
  • Hegemonic masculinity intersects with toxic masculinity by promoting behaviors that discourage emotional expression and vulnerability in men, reinforcing harmful stereotypes. Gender norms are influenced by hegemonic masculinity as these norms dictate acceptable behaviors for different genders. The combination of these concepts helps understand the societal pressures that define how individuals should act based on their gender.
• Evaluate the impact of hegemonic masculinity on social structures and gender relations within contemporary society.
  • Hegemonic masculinity significantly impacts social structures by reinforcing power dynamics that privilege certain forms of masculinity over others, thus perpetuating gender inequalities. In contemporary society, this can be seen in various contexts such as workplaces, where aggressive competitiveness is often rewarded. Additionally, it shapes interpersonal relationships and influences attitudes towards issues like consent and aggression, highlighting the urgent need for critical discussions about masculinity in order to promote healthier expressions of identity.

Related terms

Toxic Masculinity: A cultural norm that promotes harmful behaviors associated with traditional masculine traits, such as aggression and emotional suppression, which can negatively impact both men and women.

Gender Norms: Societal expectations regarding how individuals should behave based on their gender, which are often informed by cultural beliefs and values.

Intersectionality: A framework for understanding how different aspects of a person's identity—such as race, gender, and class—interact to shape their experiences of oppression and privilege.