By: Adil Ghulam Bhat
True that social media serves the primary purpose of enabling relationships and communication in this digital age, but it also harms the sociocultural structures and besides other things triggers toxic masculinity which is destructive. Central to masculinity oppression is toxic masculinity, which refers to the belief that men should always act violent, be in control and devoid of feelings. This phenomenon is very much negative as it also has far reaching effects on men and particularly their health.
Both toxic masculinity and social media form a vicious circle. Men end up being indoctrinated into the culture of aggression by being repeatedly exposed to cultures that are violent and stereotypical. These beliefs, popularized by influencers, fitness professionals, and the so called ‘alpha men’ on social media, influence how men view themselves and their position in society.
However, what is the role of social media algorithms in making this even worse? Social media is populated by and designed to chase engagement so engagement biased content, especially one that is hypermasculine and advocates aggression, monetary success, and emotional suppression is favored. Each interaction constitutes layers of narration around the notions of masculinity and men are socialized to act male in this scenario. In this performance, social media is both the audience and the platform. A continuous affirmation of self-worth is found by men in the form of ‘likes’,
Social media platforms operate on algorithms that enhance the exposure and reward the consumers of hyper-masculine content, creating a vicious cycle. As such unhealthy elements flourish, men are likely to feel more pressure than customary to conform. The greater part of the engaging content often encourages negative stereotypes, leaving hardly any place for the advancement of good masculinity.
Is it possible to combat such forces? It is necessary to promote aspects of masculinity that are painless, such as emotional vulnerability. There also has to be a creation of content that deconstructs negative practices that are currently prevalent on the internet. Well, if technologies cannot help, can people do something to address this, or is this going to require another algorithm as well?
What could be a Path Forward?
To break the toxic masculinity cycle on social media, we need thoughtful actions across multiple fronts. What role can schools and communities play in reshaping how young men view masculinity? By teaching vulnerability as a strength, we can begin to undo the damage caused by years of hyper-masculine messaging.
But can cultural change happen solely online?
Beyond the digital space, men should feel comfortable discussing their mental health without fearing stigma. Workplaces, schools, and families must prioritize emotional well-being and encourage men to seek help when needed.
One of the negative within toxic masculinity would be the denial of emotions that are perceived as weak, and as feminine. Such emotions include empathy, respect, sadness or even being vulnerable. In accordance with the American Psychological Association, regards men who are masculine in a stereotyped manner, are less likely to pursue mental health care Shrinking Apologies: Adult’s Agenda for a Resilient First Responders Female Alcohol Abuse, which results to rising substance abuse, depression and anxieties.
And does the social media contribute to this already anxious situation in society? The unreachable new heights created by influencers and famous people put pressure on men, making them mute their tears & suffering and talk about their achievements instead. In a study conducted by Movember in 2019, 58% of men admitted to using ‘male’ pressures most of the time and this is not good as it brought up concerns of increased hopelessness and loneliness. Such dynamics, especially online social media and platforms make these pressures even harder for men, making them at risk for increased suicide rates and this is given risk in males worldwide.
What if Instead of encouraging people to live false hopes, Social Media now applauds men for being strong enough to show their emotion rather than hiding It? This transition could disrupt adverse masculinity and show more productive channels of emotional regulation for men.
Can role models—both online and offline—help to break these entrenched norms? The answer is affirmative. Since role models are reflected by a range of identities, ways of life and emotions, they are able to subvert the masculine norms. Men who are loved should be the ones who are emotionally vulnerable, strong and responsive for this is what real strength is about.
Conclusion: A Change is Necessary!
The pressures and traumas of toxic masculinity, often magnified by social media algorithms, remain prevalent and continue to distort how men view themselves and the society. The worship of power, aggression, and emotional illiteracy has caused a severe public health issue which is mental health disproportionally among men. What is masculinity in the social media age? In today’s world, men have either been told or have perceived themselves as weak when they are emotionally open, and as such strive to suppress rather than embrace. This will involve a mix of digital literacy, accountability of these platforms, and a shift in culture.
Let’s ask ourselves: Is the current portrayal of masculinity sustainable for future generations? And what steps can we take to foster a healthier digital environment for men to express themselves?
