Shifting expectations : the impact of evolving gender roles on young men in contemporary society

Abstract

This dissertation explores how young Maltese men perceive and navigate shifting gender roles in contemporary Maltese society. Grounded in feminist standpoint theory and a social constructionist epistemology, the study aims to examine men’s attitudes toward evolving gender expectations, the psychological, social, and financial impacts they experience, and the coping strategies they employ in their daily lives. A qualitative methodology was adopted, involving semi-structured interviews with 17 men aged 18 to 35, recruited through gatekeepers and snowball sampling, to capture a diverse range of perspectives. Thematic analysis revealed several key patterns. While many participants supported gender equality in principle, traditional norms surrounding masculinity, such as emotional stoicism, financial responsibility, and reluctance to seek help, were perceived as mainstays in their perception of masculinity. Participants often expressed ongoing internal conflicts between embracing ‘modern’ values and adhering to traditional societal expectations of what a man should be like. Their vision of a man as being the main breadwinner emerged as a critical concern for many, as did uncertainty in the face of future roles, especially fatherhood. Mental health was also a prominent issue, with stigma and inadequate public services compounding the challenges these male participants face. The findings suggest that while attitudes are slowly evolving, cultural and institutional frameworks often lag behind, reinforcing outdated gender norms and mentalities. These results highlight the need for increased investment in mental health services and gender sensitive education that is currently relevant, as well as more inclusive support systems that validate men's experiences while promoting healthier, more flexible models of masculinity.