What is Toxic Masculinity and how to fight against it?

Toxic masculinity or traditional masculinity is a reference to cultural pressures on men to act in ways as per traditional ideologies. The societal standards set for man to identify manliness are complex and include toxic behavioral patterns.

Toxic masculinity contributes to many societal problems and negatively impacts the entire society.

What are the traits of Toxic masculinity?

The signs of toxic masculinity can be seen in men and masculine-identified folks, but they can be supported by anyone. The traits of Toxic masculinity might look like this:

-domination

-hyper-competitiveness

-entitlement

-self-sufficiency

-homophobia

-emotional insensitivity

-aggression

-chauvinism or exaggerated patriotism

-sexism

There are many cultures that openly accept and glorify exaggerated masculine traits.

How do fight Toxic masculinity?

1. Educate yourself and others
To see a change in thoughts in others about what masculinity is, you need to first educate yourself to address it in public. You can start by researching, asking questions on online forums and communities, etc.

2. Be aware of it
When you are conscious of yourself and the world, you can take the charge or be a part of the change. Start observing your thoughts and sayings if it's stereotypical or offensive to others.

3. Have conversations
The best way to deal with toxic masculinity is to have honest and transparent conversations with the close people in your life. You can start asking your siblings and friends about their perspectives on gender identities and expressions. Holding conversations on this topic might get sensitive and defensive, but it will have a big impact on everyone.

4. Learn to be vulnerable.

Toxic masculinity is deeply rooted in our traditional beliefs. That's why it's crucial for us to be conscious and recognize it in our everyday life so that we can openly talk about it to eradicate it from society.

At Younity, we organize weekly workshops to discuss and guide you on unconventional and important topics to help you be aware and alter unhelpful thinking patterns.