Scientists say all men fit into three categories – so which one are you?
Scientists say all men fit into three categories – so which one are you?
- Researchers studied 92 straight men from different cultural backgrounds
- They found that all fit men had one of three styles of masculinity
When it comes to types of men, you might think of alpha or beta males.
But a new study has revealed three new categories of masculinity that scientists say all men fit into.
Researchers at Columbia University studied 92 straight men from different cultural backgrounds and found three types of masculinity.
According to the researchers, neo-traditionalist men largely follow traditional gender roles, while egalitarian men seek a more equal partnership.
Meanwhile, progressive men have regular conversations with their partner to coordinate who does what.
When it comes to types of men, you might think of alpha or beta males. But a new study has revealed three new categories of masculinity that scientists say all men fit into (stock image)
Men seeking a more equal partnership, with an emphasis on reciprocity and measurable give and take, are classified as egalitarian (stock image)
In the study, the team set out to find out how masculinity styles influence intimate partner relationships.
Dr. John Oliffe, who led the study, said: ‘We wanted to understand how different types of masculinity shape men’s relationships and their mental health.
“What we found was that these male types were associated with different benefits and challenges.”
The researchers recruited 92 straight men, ages 19 to 43, who completed questionnaires to assess their masculinity style.
The results showed that all men fit into one of three categories.
First, men who largely follow traditional gender roles, such as being the provider and protector in the relationship, are classified as neo-traditionalists.
Meanwhile, men seeking a more equal partnership, with an emphasis on reciprocity and measurable give and take, are classified as egalitarian.
Finally, men who work to build gender equality in the partnership through regular, purposeful conversations with their partner to align who does what are considered progressive.
These different styles turned out to have both advantages and disadvantages.
Men who work to build gender equality in the partnership through regular, purposeful conversations with their partner to align who does what are classified as progressive (stock image)
For example, men who actively promote gender equality and social justice report improved mental well-being.
Men who challenge these ideals, on the other hand, may experience isolation or criticism from others, which can affect their mental health.
Meanwhile, the study found that some men with an egalitarian style still struggle to understand the concept of achieving gender equality by dividing household chores strictly 50-50.
‘These shifts and tensions have implications for mental health,’ said Dr Oliffe.
“To promote meaningful change, we need to address the structures that influence men’s behavior.”
The team hopes the findings pave the way for healthier relationships.
“As men become increasingly involved in advancing gender equality, little is known about how younger men work to build partnerships in their private lives,” added Dr. Oliffe.
“With this research, we hope we’ve helped map that unknown space and point a way forward for healthier relationships that promote the health of men, their partners, and families.”