The young men we surveyed mostly rejected traditional models of masculinity based on aggression, stoicism and homophobia, but a sizeable minority still support them.
Ellen Choi, Toronto Metropolitan University and Allen Sabey, Northwestern University
Constrictive social norms and views of masculinity still prevent many men from being vulnerable and seeking help, which is impacting their mental well-being.
A new wave of research shows how working-class young men are changing their behaviour. But some remain hostile to the term “toxic masculinity” and see it as a vehicle for shaming men.
For young men who struggle with mental health or lack connections in real life, chat and community features of online games can be a source of support.
The Barbie movie has caused a media storm, even before the photo of the pink-clad Canadian PM and his son circulated on social media. Much of the conversation has zoned in on men and masculinity.
This is an intuitive finding, but we had little empirical evidence of it until now. It highlights the critical role fathers play in steering boys towards healthier expressions of masculinity.
The manosphere may not strictly be centred on misogyny, but in young men’s search for connection, truth, control, and community at a time where all are increasingly uncertain and ill-defined.