Masculinity Essay - 1619 Words

Three common stereotypes associated with masculinity would be self-confidence, aggressiveness, and insensitivity. Self-confidence is a positive trait that men are associated with, however, it can also be a negative trait. Many men are self-confident which helps their self-esteem and boosts their mental image of themselves. Those men who are not self-confident may feel that the stereotype negatively impacts them they may feel like they are not â€Å"man† enough. Men and boys are often stereotyped as being aggressive, which I believe is a negative stereotype. Boys are taught from a young age that they need to be physically dominant and that they are supposed to play rough. This behavior that is taught at young age then grows with them over time†¦show more content†¦To me the word masculinity means the ability to express feelings and emotions while still being a strong role model to young men and boys. Masculinity encompasses the ability to be the stereotypical male qual ities like being tough, strong, and brave, while still being able to express emotions and having the ability to admit that admit weakness. I have developed this definition by viewing men around me and choosing the traits that I find the most admirable. I feel like I do not necessarily accept societal concepts of masculinity but at times I do find myself complying with societal concepts. I do find myself challenging gender norms, I feel like people should be able to express and be themselves no matter what society dictates. Femininity to me means being able to be independent, self- advocating, while still being kind and nurturing. I personally think that I am more feminine than what I am masculine, but I feel like I do possess qualities of both genders. I believe that I am more feminine because I am very sensitive, nurturing, and independent, however, I do feel like I am strong and brave like the stereotypical male. 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