Impact of Masculine Identity on Racing Engagement Among Young Motorcyclists in Penang, Malaysia

Abstract

Background Illegal motorcycle racing has become increasingly prevalent among young individuals as a means of seeking excitement and self-expression. This research aimed to explore the prevalence of self-perceived illegal motorcycle racers and the impact of masculine identity on their participation in racing activities. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2020 to January 2021. Participants completed self-administered questionnaires, including the Conformity to Masculine Norms Inventory-22 (CMNI-22), to measure masculine identity levels. Multiple logistic regression was used to determine the association between masculine identity and participation in illegal racing. Results A total of 400 individuals with a mean age of 18.5 years (SD ± 13.4) participated in the study. The average duration of engagement in street racing was 1.3 years (SD ± 1.13). Among the participants, 57.5% identified themselves as active racers, while the remaining 42.5% either observed the races or took part in convoys exclusively. The mean score for masculine identity was 31, with scores ranging from 21 to 45.2. The results showed that participants with high levels of masculine identity were four times more likely to engage in racing (95% confidence interval (CI) 3.57, 6.12; P = 0.001) compared to those with low levels of masculine identity. Conclusion Promoting positive masculinity through education, engagement in safe activities, and highlighting role models with qualities like kindness and responsibility may help foster healthy behaviours and well-being among youth.