Examples Of Masculinity

From birth to adulthood, many factors play into what exactly shapes the modern man. These factors can include but are not limited to the child’s upraising, the social environment that surrounds him and the life experiences gained over time (Women and Gender Advocacy center). The idea that every man’s individual experiences differ brings into question what makes a man truly masculine. One position on defining masculinity is abiding by society’s expectations about the ideal male body and the characteristic traits often presented as manly. A second position that could be argued about masculinity is the idea of it being based entirely on the man’s role within society and what he provides for the family. In order to be seen as a true man, the

Throughout history, society has held a set of beliefs that men are expected to have more “agentic” characteristics and when a man embodies these masculine views, they will be viewed as more of a man than would have been before(Lopez-Zafra et la. 170). Personality traits of aggression and bravery are expected to be more typical of men. (Lopez-Zafra et la. 170). From when boys are little, they are constantly reminded to toughen up and don’t cry (Sommers). This reinforces the expectation of men being dominant, aggressive, and in control. These characteristics dive into the man’s view of himself and his attitude or state of mentality which contribute to his sense of

Many boys are pressured to do well in education in order to become the epitome of the “masculine role” later in life and eventually raise a family (Franklin 44; Charlesbois 202). Men are also pressured to be successful within the work force. Living up to the expectation of being more successful and dominant in the work force and family leads to what Charlesbois describes as the benefits of masculinity (202). The idea of a male holding a certain power or position is seen as masculine and the rewards gained from having that power or position also contribute to