New Study Reveals Three Distinct Masculinity Categories in Straight Men’s Relationships
Researchers from the University of British Columbia in Canada have identified three distinct masculinity categories that define how straight men navigate their romantic relationships. The study, which involved in-depth interviews with 92 heterosexual men aged 19 to 43 from 14 different countries, aimed to understand how different types of masculinities shape men’s relationships and mental health.
The first masculinity type identified by the researchers is “neo-traditionalist,” which refers to men who largely adhere to traditional gender roles, such as being the provider and protector in the relationship. The second category is “egalitarian,” where men seek a more equal partnership with an emphasis on mutuality and measurable give and take. The third and final category is “progressive,” which pertains to men who actively work on building gender equity in their relationships through regular, purposeful conversations with their partners to adjust responsibilities.
The study found that more than a quarter (26%) of the men interviewed fell into the “progressive” masculinity category. These men focused on fairness, social justice, and checked their own privilege to operate justly within the relationship and society as a whole. On the other hand, less than a quarter of men (24%) were categorized as “neo-traditionalist,” and half of all those interviewed purposefully distanced themselves from traditional masculine norms.
The low number of men categorized as “neo-traditionalist” highlights how younger generations are actively trying to move away from toxic masculinity, which includes the suppression of emotion, the assertion of dominance, and reluctance to participate in household chores. The most common masculinity type among the young interviewees was “egalitarian,” with men idealizing equal contributions and reciprocity in their relationships.
Dr. John Oliffe, a professor of nursing at UBC and the lead researcher, explained that these masculinity types are associated with different benefits and challenges. Men who actively promote gender equity and social justice reported improved mental well-being. However, they also faced isolation or criticism from other males, which influenced their mental health.
Dr. Oliffe hopes that this research will help map the uncharted space of how younger men build partnerships in their private lives. By understanding these masculinity categories, the study aims to point the way forward for healthier relationships that promote the well-being of men, their partners, and their families.
The study’s findings shed light on the evolving nature of masculinity and the importance of challenging traditional gender roles in relationships. As society continues to transform, it is crucial to understand and support men in navigating their relationships in ways that promote equality and mutual respect.
What are the benefits of adopting a progressive and egalitarian view of masculinity in terms of relationship satisfaction and mental health outcomes for men
That many men fall into multiple masculinity categories and may demonstrate different behaviors in different relationships or contexts. It also revealed that men who identified as progressive reported higher relationship satisfaction and lower levels of anxiety and depression compared to those in the neo-traditionalist category.
The findings of this study highlight the diversity in the ways that men approach and navigate their romantic relationships. It challenges the traditional notion that masculinity is a monolithic construct and instead recognizes that men have the capacity to engage in a range of attitudes and behaviors in their relationships.
By understanding these distinct masculinity categories, researchers hope to provide insights that can be used to improve men’s mental health and relationships. The study emphasizes the importance of promoting more progressive and egalitarian views of masculinity, which can lead to healthier and more satisfying relationships for men.
The researchers also suggest that this knowledge could potentially be used in therapy sessions to help men explore and understand their own masculinity, and how it influences their relationships. By encouraging open and honest conversations about gender roles and expectations, men may be able to develop more fulfilling and equitable relationships.
Overall, this study sheds light on the complexity of masculinity and how it impacts men’s relationships. It challenges traditional stereotypes and provides a framework for understanding the various ways that men navigate their romantic partnerships. The findings have important implications for improving men’s mental health and promoting healthier, more equal relationships.
