A new study has quantified the term “toxic masculinity” like never before: researchers found that men who strictly conform to traditional gender norms often experience higher levels of stress. and Less likely to seek help for mental health issues.
That looks healthy!
To investigate the relationship between adherence to traditional masculine characteristics and mental health, the researchers recruited 326 male subjects through an online platform. Participants’ ages ranged from 18 to 75, with an average age of 33. The majority of participants were white (66.3%), heterosexual (85%), and college-educated (41%). Nearly half of the participants identified as Democrats.
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The researchers used questionnaires to measure participants’ conformity with masculine norms such as emotional control, winning, power over women, and independence, and also assessed their beliefs about the stigma associated with seeking mental health care.
Findings suggest that men who adhere to traditional masculine characteristics believe that receiving mental health treatment is associated with negative perceptions.
“Because warning signs of depression vary among men, it will be important to understand what unique gender-related attributes may pose barriers to disclosure and how men can communicate more clearly with health care providers and seek help without feeling embarrassed or less masculine,” the researchers wrote.
“Furthermore, traits such as being ambitious, independent, proactive and competitive are traditionally masculine traits that have the potential to bring about positive change and progress in society,” they continued.
As scientists point out, traditionally masculine traits aren’t inherently bad, but how you act on them can lead to negative outcomes.
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Given the current discussion about men and boys in the United States, it’s fitting that a study linking masculinity roles to mental health was released today: Fewer young men are reaching their goals than they were 40 years ago, according to data from the Pew Research Center.
In 1964, 97% of prime-age men between 25 and 54 were employed or looking for work. Today, that figure is closer to 88%.
Men’s wages have stagnated since the 1970s, they are much less likely to attend or graduate from college, and they are also much more likely to suffer “deaths of despair” – suicide, alcohol or drug abuse.
In short, men are in trouble. In an evolving world, it is clear that the traditional markers of masculinity – being a breadwinner, having a family, owning a home – are becoming less and less achievable.
As society changes, so too should ideas about masculinity. But that’s not the advice some are offering. Last year, Sen. Josh Hawley of Missouri released a manifesto on masculinity in which he argued that men need to rededicate themselves to the Bible and double down on traits like courage and strength.
Hawley asserts, without evidence, that “the left” is trying to destroy American masculinity.
Meanwhile, the speedy senator is doing his best to embody tough masculinity, including fleeing a riot he helped incite.
In celebration of Josh Hawley’s (R-VA) new book on manly masculinity for insecure boys, let’s start a thread showcasing his manliness. I’ll start one: superhuman Josh shopping for manly wine in the middle of work. Manly. pic.twitter.com/8VmvkSMYlZ
— Kyle Garner (@KyleGarnerMO) May 1, 2023
Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker recently repeated many of Hawley’s harmful claims in a homophobic and misogynistic graduation speech, in which Butker called for men to be dominant.
“Don’t be ashamed of your masculinity. Fight the cultural emasculation of men and do the hard things,” he told the students.
Butker had some of the most chilling words for the graduating women: “I believe you women have been told the greatest lie of all. Some of you may go on to have successful careers in the world, but for the vast majority of you, your greatest hopes are for marriage and the children you will bring into the world,” Butker said.
Butker and Holly together feel The masculinity that radiates from their very manly bones…
I couldn’t be more proud to call Harrison Butker my friend. pic.twitter.com/JVT8oXhl34
— Josh Hawley (@HawleyMO) May 16, 2024
It’s interesting when contrarians like Hawley and Bhatkar talk about courage and strength because they present a false definition of the words: In fact, it takes a great deal of courage to seek medical help, whether for physical or mental reasons.
Today, gay men are far more likely to see a health care provider than straight men, likely a result of the highly medicalized networks created by the HIV/AIDS crisis, but stigma also likely plays a role. There is nothing shameful about pursuing health.
Most importantly, it’s simply a better, healthier way to live. And women are noticing it: Another recent study found that women tend to be more attracted to “slightly feminine men” as long-term partners than men who exhibit more traditionally masculine traits.
To come up with their findings, the researchers recruited 152 women to rate dating profiles that depicted men with masculine traits, feminine traits, or a combination of both. “Masculine traits” were listed as being adventurous or competitive, along with “masculine hobbies” like golfing and camping (country clubs, etc.). and It’s sturdy.
Conversely, a profile aimed at women might state that the man is more caring, sociable, and interested in poetry and baking.
In the end, the female profile won: women found the “feminine man” more attractive. and More paternal.
“Compared to profiles of men with masculine traits, women rated profiles of men with feminine traits, such as warmth and caring, as more attractive in long-term relationships and as equally attractive in short-term relationships,” the researchers said. “This suggests that slightly more feminine men may have better long-term partner prospects, without compromising their short-term attractiveness.”
Solving the masculinity crisis won’t just be about doubling down on throwback masculine traits. In fact, research shows the opposite approach is more effective.
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