New findings shed light on how “manly” norms affect teen behavior
Adolescence is a turbulent period, marked by a search for identity and belonging. A major study conducted under The Men’s Project examined 1,401 male adolescents to understand how adherence to traditionally masculine traits relates to aggressive and hurtful behavior. The results challenge a common assumption: that most boys openly embrace “manly” norms and that such norms drive widespread aggression. Instead, the data suggest a more nuanced picture where those who closely identify with masculine stereotypes are, on average, more likely to hurt others and to be harmed themselves, but they represent a minority within the broader cohort.
What the study found: risk and rarity
The researchers used a comprehensive set of behavioral assessments to gauge how strongly participants aligned with traditional masculine norms—traits like toughness, competitiveness, emotional restraint, and dominance. They then tracked incidents of physical aggression, relational aggression (like social exclusion), and self-harm or vulnerability. The key takeaway: among all participants, a relatively small segment exhibited the strongest alignment with masculine ideals and, correspondingly, the highest incidence of hurtful or self-harming behaviors. This suggests that while masculinity norms can increase risk for some, most boys navigate adolescence with more flexible attitudes toward gender roles.
Why this matters for prevention and education
Understanding that the link between masculinity and harm is not universal has important implications for schools, families, and mental health professionals. Programs that recognize diverse expressions of masculinity—allowing boys to be assertive without feeling compelled to be aggressive, or to express vulnerability without stigma—may help curb both peer harm and self-harm. The study’s authors emphasize that interventions should not pathologize all masculine behavior but should specifically address contexts where rigid norms pressure boys to prove their manliness through dominance or suppression of emotions.
Context within broader gender research
Researchers note that masculinity is a social construct that can be reinforced by peer groups, media, and community expectations. By isolating the minority who strongly subscribe to these norms, the study neither demonizes masculinity nor absolves those who act harmfully. Instead, it points to environments and incentives that sustain harmful behaviors and highlights the value of role models, inclusive education, and healthy conflict resolution skills as buffers against aggression.
Practical steps for parents and educators
- Encourage a broader range of male role models: athletes, scientists, artists, and leaders who demonstrate empathy, collaboration, and emotional literacy.
- Promote emotional competencies in classrooms: labeling feelings, healthy communication, and constructive coping strategies for stress.
- Challenge stereotypes in daily routines: avoid heightening pressure around “being a man” during sports, humor, or competitive activities.
- Provide safe spaces for boys to discuss fears, failures, and vulnerabilities without judgment.
- Implement anti-bullying programs that address both physical and relational aggression, recognizing how gender norms can shape these behaviors.
Where to go from here
The study reinforces a growing understanding that masculinity is not a monolith. For many boys, flexible attitudes toward gender roles correlate with healthier social interactions and better mental well-being. For the minority that internalize rigid masculine norms, targeted support—sensitive counseling, peer mentorship, and positive social networks—can reduce both incidents of harm and experiences of victimization.
As communities work toward more inclusive and supportive environments, factors such as family communication, school climate, and access to mental health resources will play pivotal roles. The research points to a hopeful conclusion: by broadening the definition of what it means to be a boy, societies can reduce harm and foster resilience across adolescence.
