Men Also Feel: Consequences of Traditional Masculinity on Mental Health and Relationships in Ecuadorian Men

Abstract

The objective of the present investigation was to explore the possible consequences of adherence to the values of traditional masculinity on the mental well-being of Ecuadorian men, their relationships and social interactions. In this descriptive, exploratory and comparative study, 1044 Ecuadorian men between the ages of 18 and 35 (µ= 23.23; S.D.= 3.064) participated; they completed the Masculinity and Well-being Study Questionnaire. The results show that men who identify with traditional masculinity are more satisfied with their lives and have a lower risk of depression; however, they are also more disconnected from their emotions, present risky behaviors (traffic accidents, fights), show difficulties in becoming intimate in their personal relationships, and have problems in their social interactions in terms of homophobia, bullying, and sexual harassment. It is concluded that the apparent well-being comes from conforming to the social norm, but that the cost of adhering to traditional masculinity is high both emotionally and relationally.