hegemonic masculinity

what does Mersserschmidt say about masculinity?

• masculinity is an accomplishment that men have to work at achieving and this can involve criminal behaviour

what is hegemonic masculinity?

• performance of dominant or ideal form of masculinity

• shaped by society and culture

• subordination of women, heterosexism, work in the paid labour market, uncontrollable sexuality

how do working class men see crime?

• as a way to accomplish masculinity

• gain respect, power, status

why are working class more likely to see crime as a way to accomplish masculinity?

• have fewer legitimate opportunities

• cany achieve respect and status through conventional means like employment

How might middle class men vs working class express masculinity?

• professional success

• physical toughness or street crime

How has Messerschmidt’s idea that men aim to achieve hegemonic masculinity been criticised?

• Jefferson states that men who have achieved masculinity (well paid job, female sexual partners) still commit white collar crime

• Ignores other explanations for crime like capitalism

• Ignores psychological differences between men

(Male criminality can’t be explained through the idea to achieve normative masculinity )