Society's expectations for men to be stoic, strong, and successful can impact their ability to express emotions and experience feelings of sexual jealousy. Traditional gender roles place greater emphasis on men being providers and protectors while women are expected to nurture and care for children. This means that men may feel pressure to suppress their own needs and desires in order to conform to these societal norms.
Masculine stereotypes around physical strength, dominance, and aggression can make it difficult for men to acknowledge vulnerability or openness towards others, including partners. These factors can lead to increased levels of resentment and possessiveness when faced with perceived threats from other men.
One study found that men who internalized society's view of what it means to "be a man" were more likely to report higher levels of sexual jealousy. They felt more threatened by potential infidelity and displayed greater anger and aggression than those who did not buy into traditional male ideals. Another study showed that men who adhered to strict gender roles experienced more jealousy after witnessing their partner flirting with another man.
The same was not true for women who subscribed to feminist values or those who identified as non-binary.
Research has also indicated that socialization affects how men respond to romantic rejection or breakups. Men may be less inclined to seek out emotional support from friends or family members, instead turning to alcohol or other forms of self-medication to cope with negative emotions. This can further reinforce harmful attitudes about masculinity and hinder healthy relationships. In contrast, women tend to turn to close connections for comfort during relationship difficulties.
There is evidence that gender role expectations are changing, particularly among younger generations. Millennials and Gen Z are known for challenging traditional gender norms and promoting equality between men and women. This shift in attitudes could help create safer spaces where men feel comfortable expressing themselves emotionally without fear of judgment or shame. It remains to be seen whether these changes will translate into lower rates of sexual jealousy or improved mental health overall.
How do societal constructions of masculinity influence male emotional expression and the intensity of sexual jealousy?
Research has shown that men who conform to traditional definitions of masculinity are less likely to express their feelings openly, particularly when it comes to displaying vulnerability and sadness. This can lead to an increased likelihood of suppressing negative emotions, which may manifest as aggression and anger.