It is known as masculinity to the set of characteristics, values, behaviors and conduct of man in a given society. For centuries an idea of a “universal man” was built, based on a hegemonic masculinity in which man must always see himself as strong, protective, provider. Today that concept does not fit much with reality and there have emerged new masculinities who are committed to more egalitarian relationships and societies.
Currently there are manyways to be a man” in accordance with factors such as: race, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, among others. Are “new masculinities” contribute to our societies because they allow:
- unlearn the gender roles established for centuries.
- Contribute to generate more equal relationships.
- Break up with him violent man model that can do everything.
- Delete the manifestations of machismo that occur in everyday life.
Below you will be able to learn more about the types of masculinities and which ones positively or negatively impact our society.
Types of masculinity
During the last decades there have been important changes in the concept of masculinity that were not even conceived possible before. Learn about the most well-known types of masculinity below:
Hegemonic masculinity: They are characterized by being autonomous, productive, heterosexual, providers and people who completely control their emotions. It is usually associated with toxic masculinity.
Subordinate masculinity: men who are characterized by lacking the traits of dominant masculinity. They tend to be a minority and do not identify with the hegemonic masculine prototype.
Toxic masculinity: is a term used to refer to the negative aspects of exaggerated masculine traits. This model is based on: strength, lack of emotions, self-sufficiency, dominance and sexual virility.
Alternate masculinities: They refer to those men who are willing to analyze and choose other characteristics and attitudes.
Positive masculinity: refers to men who use their physical and emotional strength to promote healthy behaviors and contribute to the development of more egalitarian and solid communities.
The model of masculinity perpetuated for centuries has been characterized by limiting personal growth and in its wake, it has not only negatively affected girls and women, but also men themselves have been victims of it. Hence the importance of knowing and understanding thepromoting egalitarian spaces to build healthier and more respectful societies.
Characteristics of traditional masculinity
Traditional masculinity seems to tell us that there is only a way of “being a man” and that form is based on concepts that are not valid today and that hinder the construction of egalitarian and healthy societies. Identify its characteristics here:
- It focuses on inequality and the control of power of some people over others.
- It leads to a permanent demonstration of skills.
- It is based on recurring behaviors that lead to aggression and violence.
- It is always shown in opposition to the feminine.
- Places the development of instrumental and competitive skills over personal and internal development.
Move towards more egalitarian societies It is not something that can be achieved in the short term; However, if each person contributes with simple actions, it is likely that these changes will begin to be evident in our cultures.
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10 tips to work on new masculinities
Beyond attempting to concentrate power over people and situations, the new masculinities seek to provide greater freedom individuals to face their development process and generate healthier spaces for relationships, work or personal. If you want to know how to move forward on this path, don’t lose sight of the following recommendations:
- Let go of the traditional model and obsolete masculinity.
- Understand the existence of various masculinities.
- Dispense with concepts focused on power and violence as unique mechanisms.
- Foster empathy. Feel, listen and connect with the other.
- Get involved in parenting and care spaces to build more balanced relationships.
- Avoid trying to control or define everything.
- Avoid assuming distant positions in front of others. Showing feelings is healthy for all human beings regardless of their gender.
- Respect the expression of all types of emotions in men.
- Reject sexist and homophobic education.
- Seek the development of masculinities free of stereotypes and violence from an early age.
As you can see, it is not that complicated to contribute to the construction of more harmonious relationships, egalitarian and respectful of differences. Each one can make a small contribution that will benefit the well-being of society.
In it We are respectful of these new masculinities and we celebrate those men who dare to change history by breaking stereotypes. If you want to be part of our community, learn the ways to