The Affective Intensities of Masculinity in Shaping Gendered Experience: From Little Boys, Big Boys Grow

This book explores the experiences of masculinity through the life of a boy named Adam over 20 years, highlighting the complexities and contradictions of hegemonic masculinity. It responds to the #MeToo climate and emphasizes the need for nuanced and longitudinal accounts of boys' and men's experiences to transform gender inequalities.

Format: Hardback
Length: 89 pages
Publication date: 11 May 2022
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This captivating book delves into the intricate tapestry of masculinity, weaving together the experiences of a young boy named 'Adam' across four distinct studies and time periods spanning a remarkable 20-year journey. Through these poignant moments, the reader is invited to explore the multifaceted nature of Adam's identity, as he navigates a complex interplay between attraction and resistance towards the prevailing hegemonic masculinity characterized by physical toughness, dominance, competition, and a rejection of 'the feminine.' Set against the backdrop of a long and contentious history of gender politics in Australia and globally, particularly in the context of the renewed focus on the social construction of masculinities in the current #MeToo climate, this book emerges as a poignant response.

By offering nuanced and longitudinal accounts of boys' and men's experiences of masculinity, it becomes evident that these narratives hold immense significance. They provide valuable insights into the intricate interplay of bodily, social, economic, and historical forces that shape masculinities. Such understandings are crucial in our collective efforts to address and transform gender inequalities, as they empower educators, supporters, and professionals to work with boys and men in fostering positive change.

Through the lens of 'Adam's' story, the book sheds light on the diverse ways in which men navigate the complexities of masculinity, challenging traditional notions of what it means to be a man. It explores the pressures and expectations associated with this construct, as well as the personal struggles and triumphs that men encounter along their journey. The book also raises important questions about the role of education, society, and cultural norms in shaping masculinities and offers practical strategies for promoting positive and inclusive masculinities.

In conclusion, this book serves as a powerful testament to the complexity and diversity of masculinity, offering a rich and insightful exploration of the experiences of one boy and the broader societal forces that shape him. By providing a deeper understanding of masculinities, it empowers individuals and communities to work towards a more equitable and inclusive world for all genders.

Weight: 279g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811922138
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022