Why I Don't "Code-Switch": An Examination of Expected Masculinity In The Workplace

As healthcare professionals, we may feel compelled to project a specific image to maintain positive relationships with colleagues and patients. I've personally encountered requests to modify my personality for others' comfort, being told that I'm perceived as "too much." These comments often stem from others' insecurities, projecting their discomfort onto me.

The pressure to conform raises questions about its origin and the expectation for me to change for others' security. Typically, the request boils down to suppressing my feminine aspects, both in personality and appearance. To comprehend why embracing my femininity is viewed as a threat, it's essential to examine its antithesis—masculinity. What defines masculinity, and what factors influence it? How has it evolved, and why is it employed as a social currency for men?

What is Masculinity?

The concept of masculinity, a dynamic and ever-changing social construct, is intricately interwoven with societal expectations and artistic representations. Its evolution is not a one-way street; rather, it reciprocally influences and is influenced by the creative mediums we consume. Some notable examples include:

The iconic Marlboro Men, etched into the collective consciousness through advertising, presented a rugged and solitary image of masculinity. These cowboy figures, often set against expansive landscapes, exuded a stoic toughness. The deep, weathered voices and their hardened exteriors were visual and auditory markers of a traditional masculine ideal – self-reliant, resilient, and unyielding. This portrayal not only sold a product but embedded a specific archetype of masculinity into popular culture, one rooted in the vast, untamed wilderness and the solitary strength of the individual.

The early films, exemplified by classics like Casablanca, contributed to shaping masculinity with a touch of sophistication and romanticism. The leading men, such as Humphrey Bogart's iconic Rick Blaine, embodied a different facet of masculinity. Casablanca's portrayal was characterized by a suave demeanor, a world-weariness, and a sense of moral ambiguity. The husky voice of Bogart and the subtle yet intense expressions conveyed a masculinity intertwined with complex emotions, moral dilemmas, and a sense of sacrifice. It was a departure from the rugged archetype, presenting a more nuanced and emotionally charged version of manhood.

Tom of Finland's 80s erotic drawings provided a groundbreaking exploration of masculinity, particularly within the queer male community. His work was a celebration of strength, but not in the conventional sense. The men depicted in his drawings had square jaws and built physiques, challenging conventional notions of male beauty. The masculinity portrayed was bold, unabashed, and, most importantly, queer. Tom of Finland's art inadvertently permeated straight culture, challenging preconceived ideas about the boundaries of masculinity and sexuality.

Hip hop, as a cultural phenomenon, became a powerful medium for exploring diverse facets of masculinity, especially within black and latinx culture. The genre provided a platform for artists to express their experiences and challenges. Masculinity in hip hop was often portrayed through a lens of resilience, struggle, and street authenticity. Deep, rhythmic voices conveyed narratives of survival and triumph, while the physicality and performance aspects of hip hop culture challenged traditional norms of masculinity by embracing elements of style and artistry. The genre became a mirror reflecting the complexities of urban life and the diverse expressions of manhood within it.

These diverse depictions of masculinity offer a rich tapestry of what it means to be a man. From the rugged individualism of cowboys to the sophisticated, morally nuanced characters of classic films, and the bold, queer celebration in erotic art, to the raw, resilient expressions in hip hop – each contributes to a broader understanding of masculinity, challenging stereotypes and expanding the narrative of manhood in popular culture.

Masculinity's Authenticity:

Masculinity, in its essence, is not a monolithic or inherently problematic concept. Instead, it becomes a nuanced aspect of identity when explored authentically. The authenticity of masculinity lies in the genuine expression of one's gender identity without conforming to rigid societal expectations or suppressing other facets of one's identity.

The richness of human complexity is evident in the coexistence of both masculine and feminine elements within individuals. Authentic masculinity does not demand conformity to stereotypes; rather, it embraces the diversity of expressions, acknowledging that strength can manifest in vulnerability, and emotional intelligence is as integral as physical prowess.

Authentic masculinity challenges the notion that vulnerability is antithetical to strength. It allows individuals to navigate a spectrum of emotions, breaking free from the limitations of stoicism. Embracing vulnerability fosters genuine connections, empathy, and a deeper understanding of oneself and others.

Furthermore, the authenticity of masculinity recognizes the fluidity of gender roles and expressions. It dismantles the binary constraints that limit the full range of human experiences. Men can be nurturing, expressive, and empathetic without compromising their masculinity. Authentic masculinity transcends preconceived ideas, acknowledging that identity is a personal journey shaped by a myriad of influences.

The act of suppressing aspects of one's identity, such as denying feminine traits, becomes a barrier to authenticity. When individuals feel compelled to adhere strictly to traditional masculine norms, it often results in inauthentic performances, creating a façade that conceals genuine emotions and stifles personal growth. True authenticity in masculinity encourages self-discovery and the embrace of one's unique combination of traits, whether they align with societal expectations or not.

In the quest for authenticity, individuals are empowered to redefine masculinity on their own terms, fostering a more inclusive and understanding society. Authentic masculinity embraces the beauty of diversity, acknowledging that there is no singular way to be a man. By breaking free from restrictive norms, individuals contribute to a cultural shift that celebrates the authenticity of masculinity in all its forms.

Suppressing Feminine Aspects:

The act of suppressing feminine aspects within the construct of masculinity is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon with profound implications. It involves the deliberate stifling or denial of qualities traditionally associated with femininity, such as vulnerability, emotionality, and nurturing instincts. This suppression often results from societal expectations and cultural norms that prescribe a narrow definition of masculinity, creating a rigid framework that discourages deviation.

One consequence of suppressing feminine aspects is the prioritization of patriarchal views. The adherence to traditional masculine norms, often perpetuated by societal expectations, leads to the elevation of characteristics traditionally associated with power, dominance, and control. This prioritization reinforces gender hierarchies and can contribute to the marginalization and devaluation of femininity in both individuals and broader social contexts.

Effemiphobia, a term encompassing the fear or disdain for feminine qualities, emerges as a consequence of suppressing these aspects. It becomes a pervasive force, permeating attitudes and behaviors that perpetuate toxic prejudices. Misogyny, homophobia, and transphobia are often rooted in effemiphobia, as they target individuals who deviate from the narrowly defined expectations of traditional masculinity.

The repercussions of suppressing feminine aspects extend beyond individual psychological struggles. They manifest in societal norms that perpetuate harmful stereotypes and constrain the authentic expression of identity. In relationships, the denial of vulnerability and emotional openness can hinder meaningful connections, perpetuating a cycle of communication barriers and emotional distance.

Moreover, the denial of feminine aspects within masculinity contributes to a broader culture of gender-based violence. Toxic masculinity, rooted in the suppression of emotions and the rejection of vulnerability, can escalate into aggressive behaviors, reinforcing harmful power dynamics and contributing to violence against marginalized communities.

Recognizing the detrimental impact of suppressing feminine aspects is crucial for fostering a more inclusive and compassionate society. Embracing the completeness of human identity involves acknowledging and valuing both masculine and feminine qualities. Efforts to dismantle effemiphobia and challenge rigid gender norms contribute to creating environments that celebrate the diversity of gender expressions and foster healthier, more authentic relationships between individuals and within society as a whole.

Cultural Evolution:

The ongoing cultural evolution in the portrayal of masculinity reflects a dynamic shift in societal norms and perceptions. This transformation is evident across various facets of culture, spanning artistic expressions, sports, and even the corporate world. As society becomes more attuned to the need for inclusivity, the rigid boundaries that once confined masculinity to narrow stereotypes are being dismantled.

In the realm of artistic expression, a new wave of artists has emerged, challenging conventional norms surrounding masculinity. Figures like Lil Nas X, Bad Bunny, Tyler the Creator, Harry Styles, and Kid Cudi are reshaping the narrative by embracing a spectrum of gender identities and expressions. Their work not only challenges traditional representations but also serves as a cultural mirror, reflecting the diverse and evolving nature of masculinity.

The evolution of masculinity is also evident in the world of sports, traditionally a domain associated with hyper-masculine ideals. Athletes such as Lewis Hamilton, Jordan Clarkson, and Russell Westbrook are breaking stereotypes by redefining what it means to be a man in the sports arena. Their expressions of individuality, style, and emotional openness challenge the conventional expectations placed on athletes, contributing to a more inclusive perception of masculinity in the sports world.

In an unexpected yet impactful arena, the corporate world is witnessing a shift in the expression of masculinity. Figures like robotic engineer Mark Bryan, who proudly embraces traditionally feminine attire in a professional setting, challenge established norms within corporate culture. This not only fosters workplace inclusivity but also signals a departure from restrictive dress codes, encouraging a more authentic representation of gender identity in professional environments.

This cultural evolution is not merely a surface-level transformation but a deeper reconsideration of societal values. It signifies a growing recognition that authenticity in gender expression is not only acceptable but vital for the well-being of individuals and the broader community. As diverse voices contribute to this evolution, the collective narrative around masculinity becomes more inclusive, acknowledging the fluidity and complexity inherent in human identity.

The impact of this cultural evolution extends beyond individual empowerment; it shapes perceptions, fosters understanding, and sets the stage for future generations to embrace a broader, more accepting definition of masculinity. As cultural norms continue to evolve, the ongoing conversation around masculinity becomes a catalyst for positive change, challenging stereotypes and promoting a society that values and celebrates the authenticity of every individual, regardless of gender.

As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of masculinity in contemporary culture, the emphasis lies in embracing the authenticity and diversity of identities. Dismantling the constraints imposed by traditional norms is not just a societal goal; it is a collective responsibility. By doing so, we pave the way for a society that acknowledges the multifaceted tapestry of masculinity, celebrating the coexistence of both its masculine and feminine elements. In this journey of self-discovery and societal evolution, we strive for a future where individuals can express their identity authentically, contributing to a more compassionate and understanding world.