Redefining masculinity: addressing hegemonic masculine behaviors | Garrett Borgman | TEDxHopeCollege

Summary

Garrett Borgman's speech delves into the restrictive nature of traditional masculinity, sharing personal experiences and research that highlight its detrimental effects on men's mental health. He discusses societal expectations, the impact of hegemonic masculinity, and the need for a more inclusive understanding of gender roles. Borgman advocates for emotional expression in men, community support, and challenging outdated views to foster healthier, more balanced male identities.

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Q & A

What is the main theme of Garrett Borgman's speech?

The main theme of Garrett Borgman's speech is the concept of masculinity, specifically challenging traditional views of masculinity and discussing how societal expectations around masculinity can be harmful. He emphasizes the need for more inclusive definitions of masculinity that allow men to express emotions and break free from toxic masculine norms.

How did Garrett's childhood experiences shape his views on masculinity?

Garrett's childhood experiences, such as playing with other children in ways considered feminine and his dislike for aggression in sports like football, made him aware of societal expectations of masculinity. He felt pressure to conform to a masculine image, which later led him to challenge those norms as outdated and harmful.

What did Garrett learn from participating in group discussions at college?

During his sophomore year in college, Garrett participated in group discussions with other men about their experiences of being male in society. These discussions helped him realize that the traditional terms used to describe masculinity were restrictive and harmful, and he concluded that loosening these terms could lead to healthier emotional expression for men.

How does Garrett describe the concept of 'hegemonic masculinity'?

Garrett defines hegemonic masculinity as the social pattern where stereotypical male roles are idealized. This often results in men feeling pressured to display strength, dominance, and emotional stoicism, leading to the reinforcement of traditional male behaviors that can be harmful to both men and society.

What were some of the early challenges Garrett faced in relation to societal expectations of masculinity?

One early challenge Garrett faced was playing football as a child. Despite being physically capable and successful at the sport, he disliked the aggression and violence involved, which conflicted with societal expectations for boys with his physical build. He struggled with communicating his discomfort to his emotionally stoic father, highlighting the pressure to conform to traditional masculinity.

What research findings does Garrett share regarding societal views of masculinity?

Garrett shares research findings indicating that 53% of adults look up to a manly or masculine figure, with 60% viewing this positively and 37% viewing it negatively. He also notes that views on masculinity differ significantly across political lines and that many men feel societal pressure to appear emotionally strong, which can be detrimental to their mental health.

Why does Garrett mention the book 'Between the World and Me' by Ta-Nehisi Coates?

Garrett mentions 'Between the World and Me' to highlight the experience of black men and how race intersects with masculinity. In the book, Coates discusses the hyper-masculine roles black men often have to adopt for survival, which adds another layer of complexity to the issue of masculinity.

What are some of the warning signs of toxic masculinity that Garrett identifies?

Garrett identifies several warning signs of toxic masculinity, including a lack of emotional vulnerability, aversion to feminine traits or interests, the belief that men should not express emotion, and the assumption that women are the primary caretakers of children.

What does Garrett suggest as potential solutions to toxic masculinity?

Garrett suggests normalizing emotional expression in men, providing community outreach programs, and challenging traditional gender roles as potential solutions to toxic masculinity. He emphasizes the need for education and accountability to break away from harmful masculine norms.

What does Garrett mean by the phrase 'Boys will be boys,' and why does he critique it?

Garrett critiques the phrase 'Boys will be boys' because it excuses unacceptable behaviors in boys, leading to the socialization of toxic masculinity. He argues that this mindset teaches boys that harmful behaviors are acceptable, which perpetuates these behaviors into adulthood and reinforces hegemonic masculinity.