Masculinity Threats

With the start of the 21st century, traditional gender norms in many parts of the world became more flexible and frequently challenged. Yet in spite of this evolution, boys and men continue to experience masculinity threats throughout their social, emotional, and psychological development. [Page 1120]Masculinity threats can be defined as instances in which a boy or man experiences a threat from his external environment, with the potential to expose him as insufficiently masculine and failing to fulfill gender expectations. To further explore this topic, this entry provides an overview of different masculinity threats, the sources from which they originate, developmental and cultural differences, and social and psychological consequences.