Max Johnson, 23

I grew up on Vashon Island, Washington, and recently graduated from Western Washington University with a degree in Sociology and International Studies. I enjoy reading, eating, writing, running, and exercising my sociological imagination in daily life.Welcome to the site!

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Strict adherence to male gender norms is harmful to all. Sexism, violence, sexual abuse, and homophobia all stem, in part, from male fragility and time-honored gender norms delineating “appropriate” male behavior. Also, the emotional consequences of toxic masculinity for men (constant criticism of one’s body, the need to assert dominance, an unwillingness to cultivate close relationships, etc.) can be severely taxing from a mental and social health standpoint.

Conversely, I firmly believe that conflict (both internal and outward) becomes less likely when people cultivate self-love and a critical inquiry regarding gender roles.  Masculinity Meditations serves as a constructive space for conversation regarding male gender norms and body image. Let’s share!

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I drew a great amount of inspiration for this site from projects like Tough Guise (an incredibly interesting and important documentary by Jackson Katz), and The Sun’s photo project on male body positivity. Check them out!