A review of 38 experiments suggests that feeling threatened about masculinity may influence some men to adopt riskier health behaviors. Researchers found the clearest evidence around food choices: men experiencing masculinity threat were more likely to prefer meat, reject vegetarian foods and feel stronger emotional attachment to meat. Some studies also linked masculinity threat with increased alcohol or energy-drink consumption, physiological stress, anger and reduced empathy. Risk-taking behaviors showed more limited evidence, with some experiments reporting greater willingness to take health risks. However, responses varied widely between individuals, and most studies were conducted in Western populations. Researchers say more real-world research is needed to understand how masculinity pressures influence men’s long-term health.
Read more at NewsMedical