The Heterosexual Male Gender Role Stereotype: Its Evolution and Psychological Impact on Contemporary American Men

Abstract

The past 50 to 70 years has brought about considerable change in the way most Americans live and work. Women continue to gain equality with men while adapting to the needs of society. However, until recently heterosexual men have not been expected to substantially change their roles or behavior. Men may be unprepared for the roles that they feel have been relegated to them by the changing world. As a consequence, they may be experiencing depression and disillusionment, acting out in ways that can influence education, jobs, politics, and ultimately public safety. Psychology and social science has not effectively taken an accounting of the evolution of masculine identity and the adjustment to that evolution in a rapidly changing world by heterosexual men. Using a hermeneutic methodology, this thesis examines factors contributing to role shift and discusses what psychotherapists may need to consider when working with men today.