Exploring Feminism and Masculinity- Intersections and Future Directions
Society influences many aspects of the way people think, including masculinity and femininity. Accordingly, based on this aspect, my definition of masculinity is the traits and behaviors associated with men. Consistently, certain behaviors and qualities are associated with men to describe them under masculinity aspects. From my perception of masculinity, it is evident that I am a gender stereotype by associating certain behaviors and traits with a specific gender. Some of the characteristics associated with masculinity include occupation, interests, egotism, being tough, being breadwinners, and physical appearance, such as height (Kachel, Steffens & Niedlich, 2016). Subsequently, it is evident that these traits are traditional and stereotypical; however, considering the current societal changes, some of these traits apply to both men and women (Kachel, Steffens & Niedlich, 2016). Consequently, it can be considered fluid when a person’s characteristics lean towards masculinity or femininity. This concept is derived from changes in society that drive people to acquire and develop certain traits.
Masculinity Traits Installation
Masculinity aspects are engraved in people from as early as when they are children. When babies are born, they are considered male or female; further, roles are assigned to different genders in their families. For instance, stereotypical mothers are considered more feminine due to their being gentle and caregivers. In contrast, fathers are considered masculine due to traits such as strict and harsh heads of households (Kachel, Steffens & Niedlich, 2016). Additionally, gender stereotypes are evident in society, and attributes are evidently categorized as feminine or masculine; other masculinity traits are instilled through movies and games. Violence is considered masculine, and most media, such as movies, music, and games, promote violence. Violence is regarded as one way by which men express their emotions, and therefore, learning the violence of masculinity influences an individual’s behavior and character, impacting their character (Princeton University, 2021). New forms of masculinity develop by overlooking social rules on gender and acquiring desirable traits.
References
Kachel, S., Steffens, M., & Niedlich, C. (2016). Traditional Masculinity and Femininity: Validation of a New Scale Assessing Gender Roles. Frontiers In Psychology, 7. doi: 10.3389/fps.2016.00956
Princeton University. (2021). Healthy Masculinity | UMatter. Retrieved from https://umatter.princeton.edu/respect-matters/healthy-masculinity
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Question
Answer any two discussion prompts. Each answer should consist of a thoughtful response between 100-150 words.
What does Hooks say about the “potential oppressor within”? How does this concept interact with other ideas we’ve explored?
What should be the main concern for future feminist movements and the revitalization of feminist perspectives?
Examine your definition of masculinity. What are some of the qualities that are seen as masculine? Do you think the definition of masculine is as fluid or structured as what is feminine?
How is masculinity instilled (books, movies, games, family roles, clothing, etc.)? What is the result of the learned violence of masculinity? Can you envision new forms of masculinity? How might they emerge? What is the result of the learned violence of masculinity?
After you post, engage at least two of your peers by commenting on their posts in a substantial and constructive way. When responding in your post or to peers, remember the ABCs of a good response: