admin | September 19, 2022
In many countries around the world, men grow up learning that they should be strong and not express their emotions externally, especially emotions such as fear, vulnerability, or tenderness. They are expected to be the head of their families and to provide for them. These stereotypes prevent men from living a more holistic life.
They also lead to problems for women, including violence, lack of support in the home, and an inability to participate in decision-making in their homes and communities. The concept of positive masculinities aims to show men that there are different and more positive ways of living as a man, which do not involve violence or repression for either men or women.
This report from Plan International shares results from sessions facilitated by trained local male facilitators to support groups of men in transforming attitudes and behaviours that harm women and children. It provides many examples of positive masculinities, including how men can:
- Contribute to household work and childcare,
- Contribute to the health of their wives’ and children,
- Prevent gender-based violence, and
- Include women in decision-making processes.
The report also explains the benefits of positive masculinities in men’s and women’s lives.
To read the full resource, click here.