Overview
This lecture covers James Messerschmidt's theory of hegemonic masculinity and its link to the over-representation of men in crime statistics, exploring how male socialization leads to certain behaviors and social issues.
Hegemonic Masculinity and Crime
- James Messerschmidt argues that gender is socially constructed, not defined by biology.
- Hegemonic masculinity is the dominant societal expectation for male behavior, emphasizing physical dominance, risk-taking, and heterosexuality.
- Male socialization promotes being a provider and protector, and blocked opportunities for this can lead to crime (linked to strain theory).
- Socialization values physical strength over intellect, creating possible conflict and deviance.
- Media reinforces hegemonic masculinity by portraying tough, unemotional male heroes.
Mechanisms Leading to Crime
- Males socialized into hegemonic masculinity react with force to perceived challenges to dominance.
- Anti-school subcultures form when boys feel subordinate to teachers, especially when intellect is valued over strength.
- At work, male autonomy may feel threatened by managers who rely on intellect rather than physicality.
- Domestic violence can result from challenges to male authority at home.
Applications and Examples
- Working-class young males often turn to physical demonstration of masculinity, such as sports or risk-taking crime, due to limited intellectual opportunities.
- Non-utilitarian crimes (joyriding, petty theft, trespass) are seen as ways to assert masculinity.
- Gang culture and "laddish" subcultures reinforce hegemonic masculine norms, including homophobic attitudes.
- Rejection of intellectual achievement in schools leads to anti-school subcultures among boys.
Evaluation and Critiques
- Masculinity is evolving, and intellectual or sensitive traits are now encouraged, especially in the middle classes.
- Hegemonic masculinity helps explain male resistance to feminism as a perceived threat to authority.
- The concept overlaps with "toxic masculinity," linked to mental health issues, imprisonment, and limited life opportunities.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Hegemonic Masculinity — the dominant social norms dictating how males should behave, prioritizing physical strength, dominance, and heterosexuality.
- Social Construction — the idea that gender roles are shaped by societal expectations, not biology.
- Non-utilitarian Crime — crime without financial gain, such as joyriding or petty vandalism.
- Toxic Masculinity — harmful cultural norms associated with traditional male roles that can lead to social problems.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review strain theory and subcultural theories for connections to gender and crime.
- Prepare notes on examples of hegemonic masculinity in media and everyday life.
- Reflect on how masculinity is changing in contemporary society for discussion.