Men Can Stop Rape

Healthy Masculinity & Adolescence

by Laneisha M., MCSR Intern

From the perspective of a high school student, it is presumed that to show masculinity one must act, dress, and speak a certain way. One should demonstrate athleticism, dominance, and aggression. Through my experience at Cardozo Senior High School in Washington D.C., I discovered that if a male student did not play or at least watch sports, or flirt with girls they were considered weak. If their countenance expressed unhappiness or if it even looked as if they wanted to cry, they were considered weak.

This image of the masculine male forces men to conform to society’s opinion of what a man should be, and it happens at a very early age. It stifles creativity and the ability to think for oneself.

The call for a revolution amongst young men is more prominent now than ever, and encouraging healthy masculinity is essential for changing the culture of our community. Creating an environment where a man is comfortable with being himself is ideal for promoting this change. In this type of an environment men can be confident in their own opinions and also learn to use their strength in a way that is beneficial to their development, and, ultimately, their community.

It is also imperative that healthy masculinity be learned during one’s childhood. As children, they need role models who display strength in a way that is not harmful to the people around them. If it is instilled in their minds while they are young, then they will have the tools necessary to be independent thinkers and strong leaders for the future.