Date of Degree Completion
Spring 2022
Degree Type
Capstone - Open Access
Instructor/Advisor
Melissa Nemon
Abstract
This workshop taught self-compassion as a tool to mitigate effects of toxic masculinity on male youth. Males ages 16-26 were given a definition of toxic masculinity and reviewed how expectations of it are taught and reinforced through Harro’s Cycle of Socialization (2010). They then learned about Kristin Neff’s theory of self-compassion. Participants then reflected on one instance of toxic masculinity that they had faced before, either as a perpetrator or a victim of it, using one chosen element of self-compassion. One key finding included 100% of participants agreeing they could see themselves using self-compassion when facing pressures of masculinity. In addition, 88.3% of participants had learned some ways to implement self-compassion, and self-kindness and mindfulness were the most helpful elements of self-compassion. Future studies should focus more on specific examples of toxic masculinity in the real world and follow up with participants in their use of self-compassion strategies.
Recommended Citation
Creesy, Sarelle, "Exploring Masculinity and Self-Compassion" (2022). Community Engagement Student Work. 71.
https://scholarworks.merrimack.edu/soe_student_ce/71
