When women behave in ways that don’t fit their gender stereotype — for example, by being assertive — they are viewed as less likable and ultimately less hirable. Does that same hold true for men? Are they similarly penalized for straying from the strong masculine stereotype?
How Men Get Penalized for Straying from Masculine Norms
Toxic masculinity has been the backdrop of several recent stories about workplace sexual harassment and assault, discrimination against women, and sexist work cultures. Fortunately, the data suggests most men do not conform to this troubling brand of masculinity. But while survey results suggest that attitudes have changed, the same can’t be said for men’s behavior. A review of 94 psychological studies, including more 24,000 people and spanning the past 40 years, found that while women have adapted to workplace norms, by engaging in more stereotypically male behavior (becoming more assertive, actively displaying ambition, and showing strength and confidence), men have not adapted alongside them. Even though business increasingly relies on relationships, trust, and reputation, men are not becoming more compassionate, warm, and understanding. Instead many men focus on leading and influencing through fear and dominance rather than building consensus and creating safe environments for employees to share ideas.
Why? Research demonstrates that much the same way women face unfair backlash effects for being more masculine or not feminine enough, men similarly face backlash for not adhering to masculine gender stereotypes. This backlash is likely one (but of course not the only) reason that men engage in behaviors that harm women and are detrimental to their own careers.