As I watched Guyland, I was shocked at the realities men face as they navigate adolescence and adulthood. Michael Kimmel, the author and speaker, presented the ideologies of manhood that permeate Western cultures. He describes ideologies of manhood as (1) rejecting feminine behaviours, (2) accumulation of wealth, power, and status, (3) suppression of all feelings and emotions, and (4) exuding characteristics of risk, challenge, and confidence (Kimmel). The concepts of hegemonic and subordinate masculinities are exemplified in these ideologies. That is, they are the foundation of hegemonic masculinities that describe a man who is “strong”, “powerful”, and “stable”.

Kimmel discusses the subordinate masculinities being subject to harassment, bullying, and abuse in many forms. For instance, he tells about the narrative around behaviours, words, and material things, being “gay”, which intends to de-masculinize others (Kimmel). For instance, when a man expresses an emotion or perceived weakness they may be called “gay”. Not because they are same-sex attracted, but because their behaviour is deviant to the social norm of masculinity. This man would still benefit from male privilege but would be “less than” some men that would be emotionally monotone.

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This film challenges the hegemonic masculinities by questioning the ethical implications such oppression brings to men. For instance, the initiations that men endure through college may promise brotherhood, belonging, and status, but at what cost? Kimmel notes that 55% of college students that partake in clubs experience hazing (2023). Similar experiences are had in the military. This is a direct consequence of hegemonic masculinities and the military discourse of men. Of particular concern, is that 25% of students think adults in authority knew about the hazing practices and ignored them (2023). What does this say about our culture and the treatment of young men? In my early twenties, I found myself highly sensitive to influences in my life; it seemed as though I was a product of those around me and those that spoke authority into my life. For these young men, this is highly dangerous messaging at an influential age. Guyland reminded me of the harsh ideologies men are pressured to conform to and raised crucial questions of how these harm the development of men.

 

Kimmel, M. (n.d.). Guyland. Media Education Foundation. Retrieved March 24, 2023, from https://usask.kanopy.com/en/usask/video/144407, from Kanopy.