What does it mean to be a 'real man'? To some, masculinity is defined by stereotypical traits including being physically strong, being the 'breadwinner' of a family, and constantly acting tough. To others, these ideas are toxic and negatively impact society as a whole. In the age of social media, young men are grappling with manhood and masculinity, and the internet can drive both positive connections and dangerous ideas.
According to a new report from Australia's eSafety Commissioner, the internet can be a place of tensions, complexities and possibilities for young men. The research examined the online experiences of young men in Australia aged 16 to 21 years old and explored how they express their identities, explore sexuality, and navigate social connections online. Researchers said ideas about gender can both empower and limit young men, and those who strive to enact masculine stereotypes can end up harming themselves and others.
eSafety commissioner Julie Inman Grant said positive and diverse role models are needed as a small number of harmful voices are dominating conversations about masculinity. "There's constant pressure for young men to conform to particular, often narrow and traditional, ideals about manhood," she said. The report found , continues to be a key figure in many young men's worlds, and engaging with this content is a central way in which some young men are shaping their identities.
Tate creates content based on male empowerment and being an 'alpha male'.