Today’s socially constructed
masculine role is different from its past, as we have seen it fluctuate
overtime. Like femininity, masculinity is a constantly changing construct. But
what defines someone as masculine? Masculinity is seen everywhere in one’s
expression of identity, personal attire, power and privilege. This article
discusses the emotional burden that men carry as a result of wearing a mask. As
expressed by the author, men strive for an emotional support system. Men who do
not achieve high economic power, social status, and title of breadwinner suffer
damage to their ego. Because society has placed such importance on what men can
and cannot do, male emasculation has created personal struggles for the male to
achieve ideal definition of “manliness”. For example, having a hobby in the
arts such as theatre is emasculating in societies eyes. Many are quick to judge
this hobby and bully those participating as a result. From a very young age men
are told how to behave and what to do. Research has proved that verbal male
aggression is more frequented than girls verbal aggressive behaviors. This is
no shock, since women are associated as being more emotional and expressive
while men should react “hard” and “tough” and be resilient to expressing
emotion. Maintaining positive social relationships and healthy emotional outlet
should take priority in further shaping a more positive outlook of what “mainlines”
and “masculinity” should acquire.
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