Operationalizing positive masculinity: a theoretical synthesis and school-based framework to engage boys and young men

Abstract

Summary Scholars have consistently documented the relationship between conformity to traditional masculine norms and maladaptive psychosocial outcomes among boys and young men. Given current social commentary, including debate around ‘toxic masculinity’, intervention is needed to encourage boys to embody healthy expressions and identities of masculinity. Whilst new approaches grounded in positive masculinity show promise, the construct requires further definition and phenomenological clarity. Here we review divergent perspectives on positive masculinity, and forward a refined definition, specific to psychosocial health promotion among boys and young men. We then outline the theoretical basis of a positive masculinity framework to guide the content of future interventions, aiming to achieve positive identity development among boys and young men for the good of all. This framework represents a necessary unification of scholarship around male adolescent development, education and health. Future health promotion interventions may benefit from applying the framework to support a positive psychosocial trajectory among boys and young men, with a focus on connection, motivation and authenticity.

Evidence of Gender Violence Negative Impact on Health as a Lever to Change Adolescents’ Attitudes and Preferences towards Dominant Traditional Masculinities

“…Furthermore, media creates an image of masculinity, eroticism, and affective relationships linked to violence. The terms "toxic masculinity" and "positive masculinity" have been used to refer, respectively, to hegemonic masculinities characterized by aggressiveness and domination on the one hand, and on the other hand, healthy masculine identities that are supportive of gender equality [22]. The latter would prevent gender violence and be conducive to healthy relationships and the psychosocial and physical well-being of boys and girls.…”

Gender norms and the mental health of boys and young men

“…6 Engaging boys and young men in familiar, safe, digital, school, or sport group-based settings, brings the scope to harness positive aspects of masculine socialisation including friendship and connection through sport. 9 Schools are important settings for the social development of boys. School-based peer group identities develop and strengthen over time, bringing a sense of status and belonging within particular social groups, which might also extend to the adoption of values, behaviours, and attitudes that carry mental health risks.…”

“…Engagement around the value systems of boys and young men should avoid shaming responses 9 such as labelling masculinity as toxic. Engagement should also thread concepts of gender equity to confront positions of assumed privilege and disrespect.…”

The Making of Men Program: A Mixed-Methods Evaluation of a Gender-Sensitive Rite of Passage Program for Adolescent Males

“…Future studies should consider using the newer 30-item CMNI, which has evidence of improved psychometrics. 46 Future studies should also explore additional constructs to assess in relation to the Making of Men program, as potential areas of interest not investigated here include effects on the progression of masculine identity development (which should be assessed qualitatively given the nascency of this construct 17 ) and effects on peer relationships.…”

“…As such, the development of programs and experiences that help boys understand and critique their masculine socialization and assist them in working towards a positive developmental trajectory is paramount. 17 Programs reporting better engagement and effectiveness for adolescent boys are typically activity-based, group-based, and goal-oriented. 18,19 These programs aim to promote critical reflection and dedicate time to identity formation activities to support mental health and help-seeking in the context of distress.…”