masculinity Flashcards
gender lesson 3
What is masculinity?
Masculinity is the possession of qualities traditionally associated with men.
For example, strength and toughness.
What is meant by the idea that masculinity is an accomplishment?
- Messerschmidt.
Messerschmidt sees masculinity as an accomplishment - something men must continually work on and ‘prove’.
What is meant be hegemonic masculinity?
- Messerschmidt.
Hegemonic masculinity is the dominant, most prized form of masculinity, based on heterosexism, the subordination of women and paid work. These men ‘accomplish’ masculinity through work and relationships with women.
What is meant by subordinated masculinity and who is likely to experience it?
- Messerschmidt.
Some men cannot achieve this for various reasons - gay men have no reason to achieve this, but others may aspire to it but be unable to.
For example, unemployed.
Explain how different groups may use crime and deviance to demonstrate masculinity.
- Messerschmidt.
- White middle class youths who have to subordinate themselves to teachers in school may use crime to reassert their masculinity out of school. for example, through vandalism.
- White working class youths at greater risk of educational underachievement may form anti subcultures based on deviant behaviour.
- Black working class youths who are marginalised may turn to deviant sub cultures to express masculinity or achieve material success.
Explain the criticisms of Messerschmidt.
How has globalisation led to a loss of manual jobs and increase in the service industry?
- Winlow
Globalisation has led to the loss of many traditional manual jobs. In the past, men were able to express their masculinity by manual labour and providing for their families.
How has the growth in the service industry created criminal opportunities for some men?
