Reframing Masculinity

The research behind masculinity is relatively new to the field of counseling. Matter of fact, prior to 1974, there are no journal articles or related research regarding masculinity (Englar-Carlson, Evans, and Duffy (2014). With that said, the archetype of masculinity has changed drastically. In earlier times, the conventional male gender role was viewed positively and was based on intrinsic needs (Pleck, 1981). We now know that this is not the case, and in fact, many of the older preconceived thoughts regarding masculinity are faulty and harmful to males. Today, we frequently hear the term “toxic” masculinity used to describe the ways in which males are socialized. To many, the term, “toxic” masculinity has a negative connotation, and this post aims to reframe the concept of masculinity into a more positive light. To achieve this goal, the term, “traditional” masculinity will be used throughout the duration of this article.

As a male in the counseling field, I believe it is imperative that males are educated about the dangers of traditional masculinity. Putting this knowledge to use can assist us in bettering the lives of males and those that interact with them. Extant literature frames traditional masculinity as the fear of having feminine qualities is a critical element of the traditionally socialized male gender role. This crucible leads to the 6 dimensions of gender role conflict: restrictive emotionality, homophobia, power and competition issues, restrictive sexual and affectionate behavior, obsession with achievement and success and healthcare problems (O’Neil, 1981). We tend to see many of these characteristics played out in society as men are perceived to be stoic, sexual-beings who strive for power and control.

A place where I notice the prevalence of traditional masculinity is in sports. For many males, coaches and athletes are seen as role models. The coaches and athletes that we see on television have immense influence over the public, particularly males. The first example that comes to mind is this video of Tom Izzo, the coach of the Michigan State basketball team berating his player for his defense on a play. As a prospective counselor, naturally, I question if this is the proper manner for us to teach our males. Izzo is one of the most renowned coaches in college basketball history and has the societal power to shape the way men think and behave. This intense anger is not acceptable behavior for males (or females). Research shows that this probably is not the best way to educate our males.  Matter of fact, according to O’Neil and Crapser, “Analysis shows that masculine ideology is positively correlated with 58 psychological problem areas” (O’Neil, 2012; O’Neil and Crapser, 2011). To further exemplify issues with traditional masculinity in sports, watch this clip of the coach Bob Knight choking a former player on national television. Like coach Izzo, Bob Knight is viewed as one of the most successful college basketball coaches ever. I guess we all have different ideas as to what it means to be successful, but I believe that it is imperative that we label actions like these as unhealthy and socially inappropriate. We must strive to treat and teach males warmth and compassion. This starts with our role models: coaches and athletes.

Authored by Andrew Milowsky, Intern.