What is the concept of toxic masculinity most closely associated with?

The concept of toxic masculinity is most closely associated with hegemonic masculinity, as it embodies the cultural norms and behaviors that promote an idealized version of masculinity, characterized by traits such as aggression, emotional repression, dominance, and reluctance to show vulnerability. Hegemonic masculinity serves as a standard against which other forms of masculinity are measured and often leads to the marginalization of those who do not conform to these ideals, including both men and women.

Toxic masculinity highlights the detrimental effects that adhering to these norms can have not just on individuals but also on society at large, contributing to issues like violence, sexism, and the suppression of emotional expression. By focusing on hegemonic masculinity, the concept of toxic masculinity critiques the pressure on men to embody these harmful traits and explores the socialization processes that uphold these expectations in various contexts, such as family, education, and media.

In contrast, positive male behavior, gender equality, and the reinforcement of traditional female roles do not encapsulate the essence of toxic masculinity. Positive male behavior promotes healthy expressions of masculinity, while gender equality aims to dismantle the very systems that perpetuate toxic traits. The reinforcement of traditional female roles often intersects with discussions of gender norms but