Let’s address toxic masculinity

My son came to me with a new AI system that evidently you can ask anything and it will generate a response specific to your request. Although it feels incredibly lazy, I enjoyed asking it random questions to see what it had to say. Here is what AI has to say on the subject of ‘Toxic masculinity in the Western World’. I must say, I am quite impressed!

Here goes:

Toxic masculinity refers to the cultural expectations and societal norms that dictate that men should be tough, aggressive, and dominant, and that these traits are necessary for men to be considered "real men." These expectations can lead men to engage in harmful behaviours, such as violence, sexual aggression, and emotional repression, and can also prevent men from engaging in behaviours that are seen as "feminine" or "weak," such as expressing emotion or seeking help.

One of the main ways that toxic masculinity manifests is through violence. Men are more likely than women to commit violent crimes, and this is often attributed to cultural expectations that men should be tough and aggressive. Toxic masculinity can also lead men to engage in sexual violence, as it can create a sense of entitlement to women's bodies and a belief that men should be able to control and dominate women.

Toxic masculinity can also have harmful effects on men's mental health. The pressure to conform to these expectations can lead men to repress their emotions, leading to higher rates of depression and suicide among men. It can also prevent men from seeking help when they are struggling, as seeking help is often seen as a sign of weakness.

The negative effects of toxic masculinity are not limited to men. It can also have harmful consequences for women, who may be on the receiving end of men's aggression and violence. It can also contribute to the gender pay gap and the underrepresentation of women in leadership positions.

There are several ways that toxic masculinity can be addressed and challenged. One approach is through education and awareness campaigns that seek to challenge cultural norms and expectations. This can involve teaching young men about healthy forms of masculinity and encouraging them to express their emotions and seek help when they need it.

Another approach is through the promotion of gender equality and the deconstruction of rigid gender roles. This can involve promoting equal pay and opportunities for people and challenging the belief that certain traits and behaviours are "masculine" or "feminine."

Toxic masculinity can also be challenged through the media and popular culture. By promoting positive, non-toxic forms of masculinity in movies, television, and other forms of media, we can help to shift cultural norms and expectations.

In conclusion, toxic masculinity is a harmful cultural norm that can have negative consequences for both men and women. It is important to challenge and address toxic masculinity to promote gender equality and create a more healthy and positive society.

However, I do prefer to write my own take on many elements of societal issues, mental wellbeing, great book releases and so much more. My new and debut book ’20 Weeks’ which is a real yet tongue and cheek look at the importance of spending the time understanding ourselves to appreciate our worth, is to be published through Austin MacAulay and is only a matter of months away from being available to purchase. Follow me at HazelButterfield.com or catch my weekly radio show ‘Get Booked’ talking about what I’ve read/reading, new releases, chat to authors, bloggers, publishers and book enthusiasts. All based around supporting our emotional wellbeing. Opening discussions and offering support via the incredible writing community out there - womensradiostation.com/get-booked/.