Back in August, the American Psychological Association released official guidelines for working with boys and men for the first time ever.
The APA’s report evaluates over 40 years of research to claim that “traditional masculinity” is psychologically harmful. According to the guide, despite differences in masculinity across cultures, the most comprehensive definition includes: “anti-femininity, achievement, eschewal of the appearance of weakness, and adventure, risk, and violence.” Men who are socialized with this ideology are more likely to suppress their emotions, engage in risky and aggressive behavior and are more reluctant to ask for psychological help.
What do you think about the APA’s decision? Do you think traditional masculinity is harmful? Weigh in and call us at 866-893-5722.
Guests:
Fredric Rabinowitz, psychologist and professor at the University of Redlands; he co-authored the guidelines and was formerly the president (2005) of the APA's Society for the Psychological Study of Men and Masculinity
Samuel Veissière, assistant professor of psychiatry and anthropology and co-director of the Culture, Mind, and Brain Program at McGill University in Montreal, Canada