Toxic masculinity may also assume that all men are straight and cisgender, and that this is the way they should be – which is obviously not the case. It is important to note, however, that gay and trans men can exhibit toxic masculine characteristics.
Toughness: the idea that men should be physically strong, emotionally callous, and aggressive in their behavior. Antifeminity: the belief that men should reject anything considered feminine, such as expressing emotion or accepting help. Power: the assumption that men must strive for power and status (both social and financial) in order to gain the respect of others.
Men are discouraged from seeking mental health treatment as a result of toxic masculinity. Research has found that men are less likely to seek medical attention when it is necessary because they are afraid of appearing weak or incapable of providing for their families. [3] X Research source Depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and mental health issues may be viewed as signs of weakness, and since toxic masculinity discourages men from seeking medical attention, in addition to pushing them physically, this is linked to higher rates of suicide in men. Assumptions that men should be protectors, breadwinners, or leaders, or associating men with anger, selfishness, and aggression, can be problematic and damaging. When men actively avoid vulnerability, act on homophobic beliefs, ignore personal traumas, or engage in prejudiced behavior toward women, they contribute to a wide range of societal issues, including gender-based violence, sexual assault, and gun violence. [4] X Research source Toxic masculinity ideology treats women as sexual conquests, which contributes to ongoing issues such as rape culture. This refers to the tendency to shift blame away from sexual assailants and onto the victim. When it comes to kids roughhousing, the phrase “Boys will be boys” may appear harmless. However, it has the potential to devolve into justifications for violent behavior or a failure to respect boundaries.
Phrases such as, “man up,” “toughen up,” or “grow some balls” Possessing characteristics such as promiscuity, aggression/violence, and dominance. Remarks such as “boys will be boys,” “no homo,” “boys don’t cry”, and “I’m a guy, we’re not good at that stuff/what do you expect?” Engaging in risky behavior, such as having multiple sexual partners, getting into physical fights, drinking, or drug abuse.
It’s also worth noting; gender nonconforming students reported receiving worse treatment than students who identified as LGBTQ while conforming to traditional gender norms.
Toxic masculinity is the result of teaching boys that they cannot openly express their emotions; that they must be “tough all the time”; and that anything less than that makes them “feminine” or weak. This does not imply that all men are toxic by nature.
Open the door for others, let someone in line go in front of you when you aren’t in a rush, or give someone a sincere compliment. These are a few examples of nice gestures. [13] X Research source
Masculine identifying people can take care of kids, cook, and clean; while still being masculine. Feminine identifying people can be providers (breadwinners), leaders, and protectors while still being feminine.
Remember: no one is born a misogynists or homophobe; rather, humans are socialized from a young age as to what a man should and should not be, and we are taught to reject the ‘other. '
