The Future of Masculinity: Overcoming Stereotypes!

Toxic masculinity refers to the notion that some people’s idea of “manliness” perpetuates domination, homophobia, and aggression.

This idea that men need to act tough and avoid showing all emotions can be harmful to their mental health and can have serious consequences for society, which is how it became known as “toxic masculinity.” Toxic masculinity isn’t just about behaving like a man. Instead, it involves the extreme pressure some men may feel to act in a way that is actually harmful.

Some researchers have come to agree that toxic masculinity has three core components:

1. Toughness: This is the notion that men should be physically strong, emotionally callous, and behaviorally aggressive.

2. Antifeminity: This involves the idea that men should reject anything that is considered to be feminine, such as showing emotion or accepting help.

3. Power: This is the assumption that men must work toward obtaining power and status (social and financial) so they can gain the respect of others.

Glorification of Unhealthy Habits

Toxic masculinity glorifies unhealthy habits. It’s the notion that “self-care is for women” and men should treat their bodies like machines by skimping on sleep, working out even when they’re injured, and pushing themselves to their physical limits.

Mental Health Stigma

Toxic masculinity also discourages men from getting mental health treatment. Depression, anxiety, substance use issues, and mental health problems may be viewed as weaknesses. Toxic masculinity may also stress that it’s inappropriate for men to talk about their feelings. Avoiding conversations about problems or emotions may increase feelings of isolation and loneliness.

Toxic Masculinity Examples

Unfortunately, there can be toxic masculinity in relationships, schools, and workplaces. Here are some everyday examples:

• When a boy in school doesn't act in traditionally masculine ways, and he is bullied by the boys in his class for being "too feminine".

• When a boy cries and his father tells him to "toughen up" or that "men don't cry"

• When a man is afraid to be emotionally vulnerable with his partner for fear of seeming "weak".

• When a man who is struggling with his mental health doesn't want to see a therapist because he should "man up" or "power through it".

In as much as these attributes have been entrenched in us by decades of previous generations passed, we can decide how we want our futures and those of the next generation to be like. We must understand that we constitute society, therefore changing how we as individuals define masculinity will bring a transformational change, gradual as it may be.

In upcoming posts, we will talk about how we can unlearn some of these toxic behaviours and relearn new mindsets that will truly set us free. Do you know there is such a thing as toxic femininity?

Kindly share after reading and leave a comment on what you think are examples of toxic masculinity at our workplaces.

Have an incredible weekend folks!