Tuesday's class discussion revolved around an article by Clatterbaugh (1997) titled "Introduction to the Men's Movement." This article focused on 8 different perspectives of the men's movement and what it means to be masculine in each of the eight ways. I'd like to further discuss the role of masculinity and review some of the main points in the article. Clatterbaugh defines the masculine gender role as "a set of behaviors, attitudes and conditions that are generally found in men of an identifiable group" (p.3).Growing up, I rated a males masculinity based on his athletic ability and hobbies. To me, sports like football, baseball and hockey were manly in high school and playing guitar, PlayStation 2 and poker were acceptable activities. As I matured, I realized that masculinity lies in the eye of the beholder. Being a college senior, I view masculinity as being able to hold a job and hold your own during a fist fight. It's funny how perceptions change as a person gets older and learns what life is really about.
"Introduction to the Men's Movement" was an enlightening read because of Clatterbaugh's views on masculinity. Some of the 8 perceptions still seem over my head, but I am able to grasp the majority of the concepts. The article relates aggression to masculinism and states that men who are aggressive may value different kinds of work in their professional lives. A man's personal belief of his "gender role" can define his behaviors, clothing styles, habits and living style. For example, a simple walk through a dorm hall on campus (MacDonald Hall) will prove the point Clatterbaugh and I are trying to defend. One might discover posters of half-naked females, empty beer cans, over flowing trash cans, unmade beds, Nintendo systems, athletic equipment and dirty laundry. These "masculine" objects are socially acceptable and honestly, quite expected at the college age. Students might be surprised to see anything but the above list of items in a boy's dorm room.
Despite our personal beliefs, masculinism exists and is portrayed in everyday life. If a man is seen in a shirt and tie with a suit, he resembles a masculine male and demands respect without knowing anything about his past, present or future. Men want to be respected and will use their outer appearance to do so. Masculinism is a huge part of everyday society and since the birth of humankind, men have displayed masculine roles.
I appreciate your observation that your ideas of what is masculine have changed over time. I was surprised that you thought it meant being able to hold one's own in a fist fight.
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