How to Learn Masculinity Studies

Trace the emergence of masculinity studies from the men's liberation movement of the 1970s through its academic institutionalization in the 1990s. Understand the field's relationship to feminism and gender studies.

Study R.W. Connell's foundational theory of hegemonic, complicit, subordinated, and marginalized masculinities. Read 'Masculinities' (1995) and engage with critiques and revisions of the concept.

Examine how masculinity intersects with race, ethnicity, class, sexuality, and disability. Study the experiences of Black, Latino, Asian, Indigenous, and queer masculinities.

Explore research on masculine norms and their effects on mental health, help-seeking behavior, risk-taking, substance use, and physical health outcomes. Study Pleck's gender role strain paradigm.

Analyze representations of masculinity in film, television, advertising, sports, video games, and social media. Study the male gaze, media masculinity ideals, and their influence on socialization.

Engage with current debates around toxic masculinity, men's rights movements, incels, male allyship, caring masculinities, and the role of men in gender equality efforts.

Study practical applications in education, public health interventions, workplace policy, fatherhood programs, and violence prevention. Explore emerging research on digital masculinities and global perspectives.