In focus: How to know if your masculinity is toxic

This past week we celebrated men’s international day, which brought up a discourse I think we should have, ‘toxic masculinity.’

The term “toxic masculinity” refers to a version of masculinity that is unhealthy for the men and boys who conform to it and harmful to those around them. The term “toxic masculinity” refers to a version of masculinity that is unhealthy for the men and boys who conform to it and harmful to those around them.

1. BEING STOIC

Men are constantly told to be self-sufficient, independent, physically tough, and so on.

2. OBSESSION WITH ATTAINING POWER

This is the belief that men must strive for power and status (both social and financial) to gain the respect of others.

3. PROMOTING HETEROSEXUALITY AS THE NORM

Many men are programmed to react negatively to homosexuality because it deviates from the traditional male stereotype. Men are taught that being homosexual is less masculine through popular rhetoric, and from an early age when boys learn about gender roles.