The term hegemonic masculinity refers to the dominant,
prevailing, most common form of masculinity that is promoted
through the various agents of socialization. These agents
are often invisible to both genders until identified through
educational programs or workshops. For boys teasing, joking,
name calling, isolating, ridicule, bullying and other violence
are common ways gender is reinforced. Thus we say gender is
socially constructed and varies with time and from culture
to culture. Gender studies acknowledge a range of masculinities
but the tough/ man strong/man image is by its nature dominant
because it is geared to domination and not to partnership.
This is the masculinity most boys confront at school, in the
sports arena and in the media. When most men and boys learn
about gender socializing most are relieved to find positive
alternatives; the pressures to ‘be a real man’
are not attainable for most men. Up to 75% report being very
uncomfortable with many aspects of their socializing especially
the way women and things pertaining to women (such as nurturing)
are denigrated. This is cause for great hope and the possibility
of men changing from the old domination model and embracing
true partnership with women, children, other men and the environment.
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