Masculine Identity Perception and Young Adults: Diversity, Hegemony, and Social Change

Gender-based conflict, which is any conflict with a gendered component, is a significant contributor to contemporary social problems. My research relates to these social problems by identifying the current attitudes towards gender-based conflict of young adults, ages 18-30, from a wide range of backgrounds and personal identities, gained through individual interviews. Perceptions of masculine identity expressions are not solely the province of men; all individuals, regardless of identity, maintain and develop such perceptions throughout their lifespan. Masculinities are a social production, expressed and viewed by everyone, whether one is trying to express a masculinity, or if one is experiencing and responding to a perceived masculine expression, masculinities are constantly evolving. This thesis conducts a meaning-centred analysis on attitudes and beliefs surrounding masculinities and their plurality, with emphasis on masculinity vs. men; that men are not a singular entity without depth and diversity, especially as it pertains to expressions of masculinities.