How the patriarchy also hurts men’s mental health

When we think about the patriarchy and the system around it, the conversation often goes back to how it is harmful and unfair towards women. Allan Johnson, an American sociologist,  defines patriarchy as a society in which men and women participate in. A patriarchal society is one that caters to the advantage of male by being male dominated, male identified and male centred (Johnson, 2014). This definition forms a preconceived notion that men stand to benefit from such a society whilst women wound up with the shorter end of a stick. 

While men in today’s society do often occupy positions of power and privilege in many aspects as a result of the patriarchal system, it's important for us to recognize and acknowledge that the same system can affect men negatively too.

Let’s explore further on some factors in which the patriarchy hurts men's mental health and why it is essential to challenge these harmful norms and embrace a more inclusive approach to gender equality.

Toxic Masculinity

The restrictive definition of what it means to be “masculine” under the patriarchy perpetuates the stereotype that men need to appear physically strong, be dominant and not show any signs of emotional weakness or vulnerability.

The pressure to meet these societal expectations forces men to suppress their true selves and to project a strong image at all times. In doing so, it may end up taking a toll on their mental health as they struggle to connect with their emotions.

Trying to conform to the stereotype, men may then struggle to openly express their emotions, except for anger because showing emotions is recognised as a sign of weakness. This often leads to men consciously avoiding seeking help, opting to bottle up their emotions and inner struggles.

Constant repression of emotions can foster a sense of isolation and loneliness, making them feel as if they are the only ones experiencing such emotional challenges (Grouport Therapy, n.d.).

Unrealistic Expectations

When it comes to a man’s career, finances or personal life, there tends to be unrealistic expectations placed upon them. Men are expected to take on the role of being providers for their families and become the primary breadwinner (Best, 2016).

Research done by American sociologist, Christin Munsch, found that such expectations of men being breadwinners can have severe repercussions on their mental health such as anxiety (Baer, 2016).

Mental Health Stigma

The patriarchy also contributes to the stigma surrounding mental health issues in men. Some men worry about being looked down upon or how people would perceive them if they seek help for their mental well-being. Seeking help is deemed as an “abnormal” male behaviour, consequently, they resort to dealing with it on their own, or self-medicating (Winerman, 2005).

Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms

Men who are taught to suppress their emotions may resort to unhealthy coping mechanisms– substance abuse, engaging in risky behaviours, not getting enough sleep and more (Bilsker et al., 2018; Osborn, 2022), to deal with their mental health challenges. These behaviours not only do not solve the issue, they further exacerbate it. Continued long enough, they could lead to addiction or other severe health issues.

Rewriting the narrative

The negative impact of the patriarchy on men's mental health is an issue that needs more attention. Knowing the effects that it can have on men’s mental health will allow us to be better advocates for it. 

At the same time, It's crucial for us to recognise that advocating for men's mental health doesn't mean diminishing the importance of addressing the struggles faced by women. Rather, it's about acknowledging that gender equality benefits everyone and helps break down the harmful stereotypes and expectations that harm us all.

References
AWARE (n.d.). The Relation of the Patriarchy to the Mental Health of Men. AWARE. Retrieved November 10, 2023, from http://aware-ae.com/the-relation-of-the-patriarchy-to-the-mental-health-of-men/

Baer, D. (2016). Breadwinning Men Are More Anxious and Less Healthy. The Cut. Retrieved November 15, 2023, from https://www.thecut.com/2016/08/breadwinning-men-are-more-anxious-and-less-healthy.html

Best, K. (2016). Being the Family Breadwinner is Unhealthy for Men. UConn Today. Retrieved November 15, 2023, from https://today.uconn.edu/2016/08/family-breadwinner-unhealthy-men/

Bilsker, D., Fogarty, A.S. and Wakefield M.A. (2018) Critical Issues in Men’s Mental Health. The Canadian Journal of Psychiatry, 63(9): pp. 590–596. Retrieved November 16, 2023, from https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/0706743718766052

Grouport Therapy. (n.d.). Understanding Loneliness in Men: The Hidden Epidemic. Grouport Journal. Grouport Therapy. Retrieved November 15, 2023, from https://www.grouporttherapy.com/blog/why-men-are-lonelier-than-ever

Johnson, A. (2014). The Gender Knot: Unravelling Our Patriarchal Legacy (3rd ed.). Temple University Press. Retrieved November 15, 2023, from https://genderandmasculinities.files.wordpress.com/2017/01/allan-g-johnson-the-gender-knot-unraveling-our-patriarchal-legacy-third-edition-1.pdf

Osborn, R. (2022). MEN AND MENTAL HEALTH: CHALLENGES AND SOLUTIONS. Mya Care. Retrieved November 15, 2023, from https://myacare.com/blog/men-and-mental-health-challenges-and-solutions

Winerman, L. (2005). Helping men to help themselves. Monitor on Psychology, 36(7). Retrieved November 15, 2023, from https://www.apa.org/monitor/jun05/helping