Feminine Masculinity

Feminine Masculinity

Given that the structure of gender qualities has been a large part of our views, in regards to a variety of issues, a number of people take exception to variances from within these rules. Keeping this in mind, we will discuss the reasons why many individuals are discouraged from crossing traditional gender traits, and closely examine parts of the article assigned for this paper.

In consideration of the editorial by Newsweek (2008), the author clearly uses the following lines to assert masculine characteristics, “I handle lithe, lovely women, engage in duels and delight in the experience of an exotic locale [, and] well, maybe we need to step outside” (as cited in Macionis, 2010, ¶ 2,6). This display, in my opinion, is defensive in nature, and demonstrates the probability of difficulties in the past, because of his chosen profession. Most interestingly, I find true contradiction in this commentary; for the man appears to be explaining himself throughout the piece, despite his best efforts to remain strong in core values. It seems that he wants to prove his conformity to conservative standards of what male conduct should be, whether out of internal argument or communal necessity, and sell his preferences as acceptable.

With respect to men in positions that are usually viewed to be the job of a woman, the adverse conditions and pressures of society can easily explain the difficulties a man experiences in choosing such arrangements. For instance, male nurses are prime targets of this abuse. These professionals are typically viewed as feminine, weak and homosexual examples of the male species, simply because of their preference of employment. Repeatedly, people ignore the fact that the qualifications to b...

... middle of paper ...

...onsidered in compliance with decent society. Males are considered unmanly when they stray from these rigid guidelines and expectations of women have been equally formed that have similar effects.

Specifically, as the given examples indicate, e.g. male nurses and female construction workers, men are discouraged from situations that involve feminine overtones. Alternatively, women are encouraged to fill these needs, but are ostracized when attempting jobs that have been ostentatiously designated as man’s work, which in this case, is very physically involved.

References

Godwin, P. (2010, March 16). Women hammering at construction barriers. Retrieved August 5, 2010, from FOX 5 SAN DIEGO: http://www.fox5sandiego.com/news/kswb-women-in-construction,0,4965974.story

Macionis, J. (2010). Sociology (13th Edition ed.). (p. 336), Upper Saddle River: Pearson Education, Inc.