WebMD Identifies Toxic Masculinity

In a medical review posted November 2022, the online medical information service WebMD presents an overview, diagnosis and treatment plan for toxic masculinity. To be clear, no where in this piece does WebMD identify toxic masculinity as a medical condition. Nevertheless, treating it as a social disorder, the medical reviewer points out:

"[The term] is meant to point out that certain behaviors and ways of thinking often associated with masculinity, from mental and physical toughness to sexism and homophobia, have a negative and often dangerous impact on the world."

To further clarify, we do not suggest that this review in any way legitimizes "toxic masculinity," since we fully realize there is a legitimate debate around this phrase. Even so, the WebMD review presents a curious opportunity to view the concept from a medical point of view.

Interestingly, the piece reviews a bit of history, For example, the phrase "toxic masculinity" began as part of the men's movement in the late 20th century to describe a narrow set of ideas that were holding men back rather than empowering them. It was considered a characteristic of immature men who favored competition rather than community, lacked multigenerational bonding (i.e. with their fathers), and who withheld emotional expression.

What are signs of toxic masculinity according to WebMD? Homophobia, the need for control, promiscuity, refusal to help with household chores, risk taking, sexual aggression towards women, stoicism and violence. The review focused particularly on domestic violence as an example of harm to society, noting statistics that portray the stunning correlation between homicide among domestic partners and the overwhelming predominance of women as victims.

Finally, the review touches upon strategies for stopping toxic masculinity including marketing campaigns, educating parents to create nurturing and safe environments for their kids and avoiding physical punishment and humiliation, and creating programs that positively integrate boys and men into society.