Toxic masculinity is a common, unfortunate theme within society and the media. Yet, where do these ideals stem from? What are the results of having such a mindset? Is there a solution? A professor at Stockton weighs in on her opinion.

“Toxic masculinity is any form of hyper sexualized, masculine characteristics that is expected or celebrated in men within a particular context of society. We call it hyper-masculinity (toxic masculinity), but the idea that is associated with this is a negative construction of an identity. It’s something that is harmful both for the individual from whom it is expected and also
people surrounding this individual,” Professor Syeda Hadi, specialist in social and behavioral sciences said.

There is an expectation within society for men to exist in a particular way. Oftentimes, this includes behaving or appearing excessively masculine and presenting aggression or violence. “In toxic masculinity, one of the expectations is that men cannot present themselves as feminine or whatever comes with that definition of femininity. Oftentimes, men are expected not to
express themselves.” Hadi said. “For example, the gun violence that we see is associated with isolated men who are not able to express themselves or make friends. These are things that we are expected of, which some men can’t deliver. So all of the psychological issues that are associated with this, I believe, are strongly associated with toxic masculinity.”

A correlation between toxic masculinity and violence can be insinuated. With that, there is a rise of domestic violence within relationships. Yet, women are not the only ones impacted by this detrimental mindset. “If we think about violent crimes and those who are convicted, it’s mostly men who have perpetrated these violent crimes. And if you ask why, we have to go back
to toxic masculinity and the expectation from men to be aggressive or act in a certain way,” said

“There’s a particular theory– a social bonding theory or social control theory, which says that if you are disconnected with society, you are more likely to commit crimes. By men distancing themselves from the society to be in a certain way, they’re more likely to be these individuals who are involved with some sort of problematic behavior.” Hadi added.

Movies, television shows, and other forms of media further celebrate the ideals of toxic masculinity. Men are depicted aggressively, with a bulky physique, and a rugged appearance. “The 60’s Superman is quite different from the Superman you see now. If anything, he has become more masculine. Muscles are more aggressive, there are more guns, there are
superhuman beings. Masculinity has become more apparent in movies and commercials,” Hadi said.

Hadi grew up in Bangladesh experiencing numerous instances of sexual teasing from men. She grew up believing that it was normal for a man to act that way, not realizing that it is an appalling occurrence that society accepts. Such behavior stems from the stigmatized concept of toxic masculinity. “This is one of the reasons why I decided to study these kinds of relevant
issues later in my life. Because of that personal experience, researchers who are driven by some of the feminist agendas are often driven to do that kind of study,” she said.

Yet, there is a hopeful progress of change within this dangerous mindset. Exposure education, conducted research, and scholars highlighting the awareness of toxic masculinity can beckon a revolution that is much needed. “If someone doesn’t tell you that it’s not acceptable, then how would you take a stance against it?” Hadi said.