Why Do Men Not Cry? A Behavioral-Contextual Perspective on the Impacts of Masculinity on Interpersonal Intimacy

Abstract

In contemporary Western culture, male socialization processes tend to promote a normative model that establishes hierarchies of value and authority among men, reinforcing asymmetrical power relations as it legitimizes different forms of violence. Although this model provides access to certain social and symbolic privileges, conforming to hegemonic masculinity also brings adverse psychological and social consequences for men themselves. T he systematic suppression of vulnerable emotional responses and the difficulty in establishing intimate relationships are among its most directly observable outcomes. In this sense, the present study sought to describe the impact of masculinity norms on the development of intimate bonds and their possible consequences for men’s mental health. From a behavioralcontextual perspective, we delineate the concept of masculinity and functionally characterize intimacy in social relationships. By offering an initial theoretical account of the phenomenon, we expect this work to contribute to guiding future research and to promoting alternative ways of experiencing masculinity.