Masculinity

Masculinity is a set of behaviours, presentations and roles which are culturally associated with being a man and/or possessing male sex characteristics. People of any gender identity or sexual orientation can be masculine, but those who are assigned male at birth often experience societal pressure to be so. Transgender people who are masculine may be described as transmasculine.

Masculinity is socially constructed and varies over time and between cultures. In a gender binary, masculinity is constructed in opposition to the concept of femininity.

Attributes which are often associated with masculinity include:

• Physical strength, power and confidence.

• Bravery, stoicism, and determination.

• Assertiveness, aggression, and social independence.

• Mechanical instincts and a desire to solve problems.

• A gender expression which includes trousers, short hair and/or visible musculature.

Gender identities particularly associated with masculinity include man, butch and demiguy. However, not everyone with these gender identities will choose to express their gender through masculinity.