A qualitative analysis of beliefs about masculinity and gender socialization among U.S. mothers and fathers of school-age boys.

Abstract

Public Significance StatementCulturally dominant masculine gender role norms (e.g., emotional stoicism, social and physical dominance, independence, toughness) are associated with negative social and health consequences for boys and men, along with public health and safety concerns related to risk behaviors and violence perpetration. Parents and caregivers of young boys are an ideal target for preventative interventions addressing these norms in early and middle childhood, when gender socialization begins. Findings from this study suggest variation by gender and race/ethnicity in contemporary parents' attitudes toward masculinity and norms-challenging messages about parenting boys and can inform the development of social norms-based and parenting interventions to improve health equity and address multiple public health concerns, including injury and violence.