Positive Psychology: An Empirical Examination of Beneficial Aspects of Endorsement of Masculine Norms

This study explored the relations among North American masculine norms, positive psychology strengths, and psychological well-being in a sample of 250 men ranging in age from 18 to 79. Results indicate that men's greater endorsement of traditional Western masculine norms such as risk-taking, dominance, primacy of work, and pursuit of status, was associated with higher levels of personal courage, autonomy, endurance, and resilience. However, conformity to the norms of winning, emotional control, self-reliance, and pursuit of status was associated with lower levels of personal courage, grit, personal control, autonomy, and resilience. Directions for future research and implications for practice are provided.