The Mask You Live In Peer Presentation Intercultural 599070

The Mask You Live Inpeer Presentationintercultural Communicationssumma

The Mask You Live In is a documentary film from 2015 directed by Jennifer Siebel Newsom that examines how societal culture and perceptions of masculinity influence boys and men today. It questions whether our definitions of masculinity are flawed and explores the impact on emotional development, social behavior, and identity formation. The film highlights how traditional American gender roles suppress healthy emotional growth in boys, promoting stereotypes that associate masculinity with traits like toughness, dominance, and emotional suppression.

From early childhood, boys are socialized to hide emotions other than anger and defiance, which are often ridiculed. This emotional repression leads to negative outcomes such as frustration, anger, misbehavior, violence, academic problems, and social withdrawal. The influence of male role models, media, and sports reinforces stereotypical masculinity, emphasizing traits such as money, power, prowess, swagger, and physical strength. Cultural expectations compel boys to adopt behaviors aligned with these stereotypes, often resulting in peer pressure, bullying, hierarchical group dynamics, and the shaming of those perceived as weak or different.

The film discusses the role of societal influences and nurture, contrasting them with biological factors. For example, toys, clothing, and media portrayals reinforce gender stereotypes, with boys encouraged toward violence and physical dominance, while girls are often associated with nurturing and emotional expressiveness. Commercials and media exemplify these differences, shaping boys’ and girls’ perceptions from a young age. Biological influences such as hormones and the dopamine response to violence and nudity also play a role in reinforcing certain behaviors, making them addictive and challenging to change.

Within this context, media representations of “real men” tend to stay within emotional spectrum zones characterized by aggression, stoicism, and physicality. Boys displaying emotions outside this narrow spectrum are often labeled as weak, feminine, or ridiculed, which discourages emotional openness and vulnerability. The documentary also references the societal glorification of violent video games and aggressive behavior as ways boys seek validation and excitement.

Recognizing these influences, the film underscores the importance of fostering self-awareness and promoting a balanced view of gender roles. It advocates for nurturing more diverse and healthier role models and encourages society to challenge harmful stereotypes that equate masculinity with dominance and emotional suppression. The article from Huffington Post accompanying the documentary emphasizes that redefining masculinity benefits everyone by allowing men and women to explore their identities freely and without undue limitations.

However, while The Mask You Live In highlights critical issues with current perceptions of masculinity, it falls short of providing concrete strategies for change. The film underscores the need for greater societal awareness and a move toward more inclusive definitions of masculinity that support emotional expression, vulnerability, and respect for individual differences. Ultimately, fostering such a cultural shift can facilitate better mental health, stronger relationships, and healthier communities by enabling boys and men to develop into well-rounded, emotionally capable individuals.

Paper For Above instruction

The depiction of masculinity in contemporary American society has long been rooted in stereotypes that emphasize strength, dominance, emotional suppression, and competitiveness. The documentary "The Mask You Live In" explores how these cultural norms influence boys' development and shape their behaviors, often to their detriment. This paper examines the societal and media-driven portrayals of masculinity, their effects on emotional and social development, and the potential pathways toward fostering healthier gender identities.

At the core of traditional masculinity are societal expectations that boys demonstrate strength, independence, and emotional stoicism. From a young age, boys are socialized to conform to these ideals through various channels, including toys, clothing, media, and peer interactions. For instance, boys are encouraged to play with action figures, sports equipment, and to engage in behaviors that demonstrate toughness, such as fighting or competitive play. Conversely, traits deemed feminine—such as vulnerability or emotional expressiveness—are often stigmatized and ridiculed, leading to suppressed feelings that can manifest later as anger, frustration, or mental health issues (Eagly & Wood, 2012).

The media plays a significant role in reinforcing traditional masculinity, glorifying physical strength, aggression, and dominance. Commercials and entertainment portray "real men" as stoic, powerful, and emotionally unreadable—traits that are often equated with success and respect (Connell & Messerschmidt, 2005). These representations influence boys' perceptions of what it means to be masculine and discourage emotional openness, which is essential for healthy mental health development. As a result, boys who exhibit emotional vulnerability are frequently labeled as weak or effeminate, further perpetuating harmful stereotypes (Kupers, 2005).

Sports, particularly football and other combat-oriented disciplines, are often portrayed as the ultimate arenas for demonstrating masculinity and character. However, "The Mask You Live In" challenges this notion, quoting Joe Ehrmann, a former NFL player and coach, who asserts that sports do not inherently build character unless ethical and emotional development are explicitly emphasized by coaches (Newsom, 2015). Unfortunately, many sports cultures emphasize winning, aggression, and dominance over teamwork or sportsmanship, which can reinforce toxic masculinity traits (Messner, 2007).

Furthermore, the societal expectations placed on boys extend into their relationships and social interactions. Early exposure to peer pressure, bullying, and hierarchical group dynamics reinforce the dominant male archetype while marginalizing those who do not conform. Terms like "sissy," "wuss," or "momma’s boy" serve to police masculinity and discourage emotional expressiveness or non-traditional behaviors (Kimmel, 2017). Boys internalize these pressures, often leading to emotional stagnation, difficulty forming authentic relationships, and increased risk of violence or antisocial behavior (Mahalik et al., 2003).

Genetic and biological factors also influence male behavior, with hormones like testosterone contributing to aggression and physicality. These biological predispositions can be amplified or suppressed by social environments, illustrating the complex interplay between nature and nurture. The dopamine rush associated with violent or risky behaviors becomes addictive, further entrenching harmful patterns (Fisher, 2004). Meanwhile, the portrayal of "real men" in media staying within narrow emotional zones discourages men from exhibiting a fuller range of feelings, which is essential for psychological resilience and well-being.

Addressing these issues requires a cultural shift towards redefining masculinity in healthier and more inclusive terms. Education and media literacy programs can challenge harmful stereotypes and promote narratives emphasizing emotional intelligence, empathy, and respect for individual differences. Promoting diverse male role models who exemplify vulnerability, kindness, and emotional openness can provide alternative archetypes that foster authentic identity development (Kimmel, 2018). Schools, communities, and families play vital roles in nurturing environments where boys can explore their full emotional range without fear of ridicule or social repercussions.

In conclusion, the societal depiction of masculinity as portrayed in media and reinforced through cultural practices significantly impacts boys’ emotional development and identity formation. "The Mask You Live In" effectively highlights these issues but falls short in offering concrete solutions. Moving forward, a societal commitment to redefining masculinity—celebrating emotional literacy, vulnerability, and respect—can foster healthier individuals and communities. Such change benefits everyone by dismantling restrictive gender stereotypes, promoting mental health, and enabling men to develop authentic selves in a supportive social context.

References

• Connell, R. W., & Messerschmidt, J. W. (2005). Hegemonic masculinity: Rethinking the concept. Gender & Society, 19(6), 829–859.
• Eagly, A. H., & Wood, W. (2012). Social role theory. In P. A. M. Van Lange et al. (Eds.), Handbook of theories of social psychology (pp. 458–476). Sage.
• Fisher, C. (2004). The biology of aggression. Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/aggression
• Kimmel, M. (2017). Manhood in America: A cultural history. Basic Books.
• Kupers, T. (2005). Homo/masculinity: The politics of performative gender. The Journal of Men’s Studies, 13(2), 251–255.
• Mahalik, J. R., Good, G. E., & Englar-Carlson, M. (2003). Masculinity scripts, presenting concerns, and help seeking: Implications for practice and training. Professional Psychology: Research and Practice, 34(2), 123–131.
• Messner, M. A. (2007). Out of play: Critical essays on gender and sport. Albany: State University of New York Press.
• Kimmel, M. (2018). The gendered society. Oxford University Press.
• Newsom, Jennifer S. (2015). The Mask You Live In [Motion picture]. USA: The Representation Project.
• Genuske, A., Gray, E., & Vagianos, A. (2015, January 23). This Is What Masculinity Really Means To Men. Huffington Post. https://www.huffpost.com/entry/masculinity-meaning-real_n_6490952