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A relational-cultural framework for promoting healthy masculinities
Michael Di Bianca1, James R Mahalik1
1Department of Counseling, Developmental, and Educational Psychology, Lynch School of Education and Human Development, Boston College.
The American Psychologist
|May 19, 2022
Summary
Relational interventions can help boys and men challenge harmful "real man" expectations. Healthy masculinities develop through supportive relationships, promoting well-being and social change.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Public Health
Background:
- Dominant U.S. culture promotes a restrictive image of manhood.
- This hegemonic masculinity leads to health issues and social injustice.
- Harmful socialization stems from interpersonal and sociocultural disconnections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a conceptual framework for relational interventions.
- To help boys and men navigate restrictive masculine socialization.
- To promote healthy masculinities and social change.
Main Methods:
- Drawing from relational-cultural theory.
- Framing crises through interpersonal and sociocultural disconnections.
- Viewing boys' and men's experiences within community contexts.
Main Results:
- Growth-fostering relationships encourage rejection of hegemonic masculinity.
- These relationships promote vulnerability, connection, and compassion.
- Relational experiences are critical for prevention and health promotion.
Conclusions:
- Interventions engaging boys and men are recommended.
- Collective dismantling of hegemonic masculinity is advocated.
- Developing healthy and flexible masculinities is the goal.
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