Written by Chris Mercanti
In recent years, terms like “dad bod” and “man cold” have gained popularity, often used humorously to characterize men in ways that subtly undermine traditional masculine ideals. Coupled with the rise of concepts like “toxic masculinity”, these trends have contributed to a broader cultural shift that some argue is degrading men’s roles and identities in modern society.
The Rise of “Toxic Masculinity”
The term “toxic masculinity” has become a focal point in discussions about gender and societal behavior, often used to describe harmful behaviors traditionally associated with masculinity, such as aggression, emotional repression, and dominance. While it aims to critique unhealthy male behaviors that perpetuate societal harm, critics argue that the term unfairly paints masculinity as inherently problematic.
A 2021 YouGov poll found that while 59% of Americans believe the term “toxic masculinity” describes some real problems, 24% feel that the term unfairly criticizes all men, creating a stigma around expressions of traditional masculinity. This has led some men to feel alienated or pressured to conform to changing norms that devalue historically masculine traits such as stoicism, protectiveness, or physical strength.
Shifting Perceptions of Masculinity
Perceptions of masculinity have also shifted, with studies showing that terms like “manly” or “masculine” are increasingly viewed in a negative light. A 2024 Pew Research Center study revealed that 25% of Americans believe society holds predominantly negative views of traditionally masculine men. Among men, 33% feel that their masculinity is under critique, particularly by media portrayals that emphasize faults over virtues.
This sentiment is compounded by popular culture’s portrayal of men as bumbling or emotionally fragile, as exemplified by terms like “man cold”, which trivializes men’s experiences of illness, or “dad bod”, which normalizes physical decline in men while implying a lack of self-discipline.
The Biological Decline: Testosterone Levels
Adding to the cultural shift is a measurable biological decline in men’s testosterone levels, which has been linked to both lifestyle and environmental factors. Studies indicate that average testosterone levels have been dropping significantly over the last few decades:
- •A study in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism reported a 1% annual decline in average testosterone levels from 1987 to 2004.
- A 2020 analysis of data from 1999 to 2016 showed a 25% reduction in testosterone levels among adolescent and young adult men.
- Factors contributing to this decline include increased obesity rates, sedentary lifestyles, and exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals.
Lower testosterone levels are associated with a range of physical and psychological effects, including reduced muscle mass, fatigue, lower libido, and mood disturbances. Combined with societal pressure to suppress traits historically associated with high testosterone—like competitiveness and assertiveness—many men face challenges to both their physical and mental well-being.
How “Toxic Masculinity” Impacts Men’s Identity
While the concept of toxic masculinity aims to address genuine social issues, its widespread application can create confusion and alienation for men. It often conflates harmful behaviors with the broader concept of masculinity, leaving little room for positive expressions of male identity. For instance, protective instincts and leadership qualities, traditionally admired in men, are sometimes viewed as signs of dominance or oppression under the lens of toxic masculinity.
This vilification can discourage men from embracing traits that might otherwise benefit their personal relationships, communities, and careers. A 2023 survey by the American Psychological Association found that 38% of men felt pressure to suppress their natural inclinations, including assertiveness, out of fear of being labeled toxic.
Cultural and Biological Degradation
The intersection of cultural shifts and biological decline paints a sobering picture for men. On one hand, societal narratives critique traditional masculinity, often conflating it with toxicity. On the other hand, biological trends, such as declining testosterone levels, reflect a physical weakening of traditional male attributes.
Together, these factors create a feedback loop: men experience biological challenges to their vitality, compounded by societal criticism of the traits that traditionally defined masculinity. The result is an identity crisis for many men, who feel caught between preserving traditional roles and adapting to a world that often views those roles as outdated or harmful.
Reclaiming Masculinity
Addressing the challenges men face today requires a nuanced approach that separates harmful behaviors from healthy expressions of masculinity. Instead of vilifying traditional male traits, society can focus on redefining and celebrating positive aspects of masculinity in ways that benefit individuals and communities. Here’s how:
1: Promoting Positive Masculine Traits
Encourage men to embrace virtues like courage, leadership, and resilience while maintaining empathy and emotional intelligence. Traits such as protectiveness, strength, and a sense of responsibility can be redefined as assets rather than liabilities, fostering healthier relationships and societal contributions.
2: Encouraging Open Conversations
Create spaces for men to discuss their challenges, feelings, and roles in modern society without fear of judgment. Movements like the “men’s mental health” campaign emphasize that seeking help and showing vulnerability are not signs of weakness but rather acts of courage.
3: Balancing Critique with Celebration
While harmful behaviors historically associated with masculinity should be addressed, it’s equally important to recognize and celebrate the positive contributions of men to society. Fathers, mentors, and leaders who embody healthy masculinity should be highlighted in media and culture.
4: Supporting Physical and Mental Health
Address the biological challenges men face, such as declining testosterone levels, through education on fitness, nutrition, and environmental health. Encourage proactive approaches to mental health by reducing stigma and providing access to tailored resources for men.
5: Redefining Masculinity Through Action
Redefine masculinity in a way that incorporates adaptability, compassion, and strength. For instance, men can channel their natural assertiveness into advocacy, mentorship, and leadership roles that uplift others. This redefinition should come from within the male community rather than external critique alone.
6: Challenging Media Narratives
Encourage diverse portrayals of men in media that highlight a variety of masculine identities—from nurturing fathers and supportive partners to strong leaders and innovators. Moving beyond stereotypes can help normalize multifaceted masculinity and reduce societal pressures.
Conclusion
Reclaiming masculinity is not about reverting to outdated ideals or rejecting societal progress. Instead, it’s about creating a balanced understanding of what it means to be a man in the modern world. By embracing the strengths of traditional masculinity while integrating emotional awareness and adaptability, men can redefine their roles in a way that feels authentic, empowering, and beneficial to society as a whole. This reclamation not only helps men find purpose and identity but also contributes to healthier relationships and a more equitable world.