Question 1

Provide a functionalist argument for supporting the following statement: Traditional definitions of masculinity are beneficial for society. How would conflict theory view the same statement?

Accepted Answer

A functionalist argument for supporting the statement that traditional definitions of masculinity are beneficial for society would focus on the idea that these traditional roles provide stability and order within society. According to functionalist theory, traditional gender roles help to maintain social cohesion and ensure that each member of society knows their place and role. This, in turn, contributes to the overall functioning and stability of society.

From a conflict theory perspective, however, the statement that traditional definitions of masculinity are beneficial for society would be viewed quite differently. Conflict theory emphasizes the ways in which traditional gender roles, including those related to masculinity, can perpetuate inequality and contribute to social conflict. This perspective would argue that traditional definitions of masculinity often lead to the oppression and marginalization of certain groups, such as women and non-binary individuals, and therefore are not beneficial for society as a whole. Conflict theory would highlight the power dynamics and struggles that are inherent in traditional gender roles, and would advocate for challenging and changing these traditional definitions in order to create a more equitable and just society.

Question 2

Research shows that men who rape

Accepted Answer

Research shows that men who rape have high needs for dominance and low need for nurturance. They also often display aggression towards women and have a sense of entitlement. While not all men who rape are psychotic, they do display traits that are concerning and can lead to harmful behavior. Men who rape are not typically socially secure and connected with a large network of friends, as rape is a crime that carries social and legal consequences.

Question 3

Rape

Accepted Answer

Most statistics and studies show that the majority of rapes occur between people who know each other, whether it be friends, acquaintances, or intimate partners. While rape is a sexual act, it is not consensual and is considered a violent crime. Rape can be planned or premeditated, but it can also occur spontaneously. However, the element of non-consent is always present in cases of rape.

Question 4

Data indicate that about ____ of college men have engaged in some form of sexual aggression.

Accepted Answer

The answer of Data indicate that about ____ of college...

Question 5

Males exposed to pornography focusing on sexual violence

Accepted Answer

Research has shown that males exposed to pornography that focuses on sexual violence are more likely to have an increased acceptance of rape myths, see rape victims as less worthy, and become desensitized to sexual violence.

Question 6

The "rule of thumb" is

Accepted Answer

The rule of thumb was a common law doctrine which allowed a man to beat his wife with a stick as long as it was no thicker than his thumb. It was a form of permissible domestic violence that was prevalent in the past. Therefore, option B is the best answer.

Question 7

Wife beating is more prevalent in families with

Accepted Answer

Studies have shown that domestic violence and wife beating are more prevalent in households with lower incomes and higher rates of unemployment.

Question 8

The leading cause of injury to women in the United States is

Accepted Answer

The leading cause of injury to women in the United States is wife battering, surpassing accidents, muggings, and rapes combined.

Question 9

Which is the most underreported of all crimes?

Accepted Answer

Wife battering, or domestic violence, is often underreported due to factors like fear of retaliation, stigma, and lack of support.

Question 10

Women who are at an increased risk for violence from their husbands are those who

Accepted Answer

Women who threaten to leave, file for divorce, or call the police may trigger violent behavior from their husbands. These actions can be seen as a challenge to the husband's power and control in the relationship, which may result in an increase in violence. Therefore, women who exhibit any of these behaviors are at an increased risk for violence from their husbands.

Question 11

Robert Bly and the second men's movement (mythopoetic branch) is based on the belief that the root of the male dilemma is

Accepted Answer

Robert Bly and the second men's movement (mythopoetic branch) believe that the root of the male dilemma is the lack of a meaningful relationship with their fathers, leading them to seek emotional fulfillment from their mothers and resulting in a sense of disconnection and confusion about their own masculinity. This is the central theme of Bly's book "Iron John," in which he advocates for men to reconnect with the masculine energy and guidance that they missed out on in their upbringing. The empowerment of women and the rising divorce rate may exacerbate these issues, but they are not seen as the root cause.

Question 12

Promasculinists

Accepted Answer

Promasculinists ultimately support patriarchy through gender segregation by advocating for traditional male roles and often opposing feminist movements.

Question 13

Historically, which period was seen to assault the American version of masculinity and included much male self-indictment?

Accepted Answer

The Depression era challenged traditional American masculinity as many men faced unemployment and were unable to fulfill their roles as providers, leading to self-indictment and questioning of their masculine identity.

Question 14

Some main features of the chivalric male were self-sacrifice, courage, and honor.

Accepted Answer

The chivalric code placed a strong emphasis on selfless behavior, bravery in battle, and maintaining a sense of honor and integrity.

Question 15

Which historical periods have served to both challenge and reinforce traditional definitions of masculinity in American culture? Document your response.

Accepted Answer

The answer of Which historical periods have served to both...

Question 16

An epidemic of suicides is sweeping the soldiers of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars.

Accepted Answer

According to data from the Department of Veterans Affairs, there has been a significant increase in suicide rates among veterans who served in Iraq and Afghanistan since 2001.

Question 17

List and describe the characteristics associated with modern notions of masculinity. Discuss the negative consequences of each of these for both men and women.

Accepted Answer

The answer of List and describe the characteristics associated with...

Question 18

The antifeminine norm suggests that girls should not express tender emotions.

Accepted Answer

The antifeminine norm is part of traditional masculinity norms, suggesting that boys and men should not express tender emotions or engage in behaviors considered feminine.

Question 19

What suggestions would you offer to policy makers in support of fathers who would like to be more involved with their children? What suggestions would you offer to the wives of these men? Use research data to document your response.

Accepted Answer

The answer of What suggestions would you offer to policy...

Question 20

Men in the 21^st century expect their wives to be employed and expect themselves to share equally in child care and household duties with their wives.

Accepted Answer

While societal norms and expectations around gender roles have evolved, and there is a growing trend towards more egalitarian views on employment and sharing household duties, it is not universally true that all men in the 21st century expect their wives to be employed or expect to share equally in child care and household duties. Expectations can vary widely depending on cultural, socioeconomic, and individual factors.

Quiz 9: Men and Masculinity