Toxic masculinity

 I have yet to research this phenomenon, but through word of mouth, one of my old friend's explained to me that males have to deal with "toxic masculinity". I think there is macho-ism among men, especially groups of men, where it is encouraged to drink and do dumb things. For me, being a masculine man means having the courage to befriend and hang around women. Now, obviously generalizations are bad, but, I think I can say I am confident enough to want to be around women, or close with one woman in particular. Some men think the goal is to fornicate, and that's it. In other words, they are emotionally unavailable.

The toxic masculinity movement was something I experienced in school. There would be discussions on women and rating women, and there was a climb to prove one's "manhood" by making money and drinking a lot. Perhaps this is something that younger males do, but I think some men take this attitude well into adulthood. Personally, I like to have one singular woman in my life.

Since I am not a conservative, I don't subscribe to the conservative critique of toxic masculinity that is unfairly dejects men. I believe the social sciences can shed light on group dynamics and behaviours, and I feel that toxic masculinity is one such observed phenomena. Particularly, sports are a situation where homophobia is encouraged and other toxic masculine traits. Sports are an area that I don't have much appreciation for, so perhaps I have steered clear of toxic masculinity in that area.

Apparently toxic masculinity appears in prison situations. For me, the most deplorable part of toxic masculinity is the objectification and group objectification of women. In extreme cases, toxic masculinity can result in violent acts towards the opposite gender. Terrible outcome of a very infectious and detrimental aspect of some (traditionally highly-masculine environments.

I think having the courage to intermingle with women and to be confident (in many ways with one's own sexuality) is the Hallmark of a man who knows who he is. I hope that the toxic masculinity trend is only present in most men while they are young, and that largely men grow out of this as they age. Business-settings however, could potentially also encourage toxic masculinity.