Critical Approach To Masculinity
According to Itulua-Abumere (2013) “The sociology of masculinity concerns the critical study of men, their behaviors, practices, values and perspective” (p. 32). It’s important to study with this critical approach because it essentially highlights the way in which men’s power come to be differentiated, naturalized and embedded across all institutions (family, education, work place, government, etc.). In addition, it brings a different perspective to preexisting and gender-biased thinking. The critical approach to this allows sociologist to contribute to the liberation of this power structure of a male-dominated society. In addition, it addresses the problems associated with male gender performance and the cost to men rigorously adhering to
…show more content…
Masculinity is socially constructed, but made up of both socially-defined and biologically-created factors. Masculinity is performed through sex role which according to Ryle (2013), “a sex role is then the set of expectations that are attached to your particular category” (p. 31). With this in mind, a boy who categorizes himself as male feels as if he has to exist within a set of cultural expectations for masculine identity. The cultural expectations can be interpreted by researchers, David & Brannon’s (1976) four standards of the traditional American masculinity:
1. “no sissy stuff” Distance self from emotion and feminism
2. “be a big wheel” Strive for success. Breadwinner
3. “be a sturdy oak” Be reliable and stay composed.
4. “give em hell” Always act aggressively and assert …show more content…
Ryle (2013) claims that work has become a deeply gendered institution. Structurally, many institutions support masculinity, for instance, Ryle explains how women’s work is not accounted for in official statistics by international organization. This emphasizes the ignore of women’s work and reinforces this view that men only can be the financial resource in a family. Ryle states “the world of family is presumed to be a feminine domain, work is considered to be the territory of men” (p 364). With this in mind, men are ultimately given the power to contribute to society over women since they are the ones who hold job
Masculinity is socially constructed, but made up of both socially-defined and biologically-created factors. Masculinity is performed through sex role which according to Ryle (2013), “a sex role is then the set of expectations that are attached to your particular category” (p. 31). With this in mind, a boy who categorizes himself as male feels as if he has to exist within a set of cultural expectations for masculine identity. The cultural expectations can be interpreted by researchers, David & Brannon’s (1976) four standards of the traditional American masculinity:
1. “no sissy stuff” Distance self from emotion and feminism
2. “be a big wheel” Strive for success. Breadwinner
3. “be a sturdy oak” Be reliable and stay composed.
4. “give em hell” Always act aggressively and assert …show more content…
Ryle (2013) claims that work has become a deeply gendered institution. Structurally, many institutions support masculinity, for instance, Ryle explains how women’s work is not accounted for in official statistics by international organization. This emphasizes the ignore of women’s work and reinforces this view that men only can be the financial resource in a family. Ryle states “the world of family is presumed to be a feminine domain, work is considered to be the territory of men” (p 364). With this in mind, men are ultimately given the power to contribute to society over women since they are the ones who hold job