PSY FPX 7230 Assessment 2 Emotional Management: The Impact of Hegemonic Masculinity on Adolescent Boys

Student Name

Capella University

PSY FPX 7230 Adolescent Psychology

Prof. Name

Date

Research Proposal: Exploring Sociocultural Influences on Emotional Regulation in Adolescent Males

This paper aims to propose a research study investigating the societal influences on emotional regulation education for adolescent males. The focus will be on elucidating how hegemonic masculinity shapes the emotional experiences of male youth and its adverse impacts on their overall development. The outline will delineate key issues prevalent in current societal norms and recommend interventions to address them. By shedding light on how masculinity norms contribute to negative developmental outcomes in young men, this research seeks to mitigate harmful stereotypes, thus benefiting both men and women in society.

Understanding Hegemonic Masculinity

Hegemonic masculinity refers to the dominant societal standard of male behavior and identity (Randell et al., 2015). This concept encompasses diverse cultural norms that dictate men’s assertiveness and social roles. However, such norms often discourage emotional expression and valorize aggression as the pinnacle of masculinity.

Challenges in Emotional Expression

Adolescent boys are socialized to suppress their emotions, perceiving sensitivity as a sign of weakness (Randell et al., 2015). Consequently, they frequently resort to aggression as the only acceptable mode of expression. This societal pressure presents significant challenges, affecting both individual psychological development and broader social dynamics.

Research Findings and Implications

Studies indicate that adolescent boys are often hesitant to openly discuss their emotions due to fear of judgment, which leads to feelings of shame and embarrassment (Phoenix, Frosh, & Pattman, 2003). Addressing these issues during adolescence is critical for fostering healthy emotional development and mitigating potential long-term consequences.

Proposed Solutions

Efforts to redefine masculinity are crucial, aiming to replace negative stereotypes with more positive associations (Newlin & Espelage, 2009). By raising awareness of flawed societal norms, educators, psychologists, and parents can collaborate to promote healthier emotional regulation practices among adolescent males.

PSY FPX 7230 Assessment 2 Emotional Management: The Impact of Hegemonic Masculinity on Adolescent Boys

Conclusion

Despite its significance, the impact of masculinity on emotional development is often overlooked (Gutgesell & Payne, 2004). This research proposal seeks to bridge this gap, offering valuable insights for stakeholders invested in the well-being of adolescents.

References

Gutgesell, M. E., & Payne, N. (2004). Issues of Adolescent Psychological Development in the 21st Century. Retrieved from http://pedsinreview.aappublications.org

Newlin, J. L., & Espelage, D. L. (2009). Evaluation of the Adolescent Masculinity Ideology in Relationships Scale. PsycEXTRA Dataset. doi:10.1037/e639772009-001

Phoenix, A., Frosh, S., & Pattman, R. (2003). Producing Contradictory Masculine Subject Positions: Narratives of Threat, Homophobia and Bullying in 11–14 Year Old Boys. Retrieved from https://spssi.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/1540-4560.t01-1-00011

PSY FPX 7230 Assessment 2 Emotional Management: The Impact of Hegemonic Masculinity on Adolescent Boys

Randell, E., Jerdén, L., Öhman, A., Starrin, B., & Flacking, R. (2015). Tough, sensitive and sincere: How adolescent boys manage masculinities and emotions. International Journal of Adolescence and Youth, 21(4), 486-498. doi:10.1080/02673843.2015.1106414