In classrooms across the UK, teachers are grappling with complex social dynamics that shape young people’s identities, relationships, and future potential. Among these dynamics, the concept of masculinity stands out as a critical and often overlooked factor. How boys understand and embody masculinity has profound implications for their mental health, relationships, academic success, and the overall culture of our schools and youth groups. Promoting healthy masculinity isn’t just about helping boys – it’s about creating a more inclusive, empathetic, and supportive environment for all in our communities.
This blog post explores how teachers and staff members working with young people can promote healthy masculinity in meaningful and practical ways. It also highlights the support available through our Teacher Training Programme, which equips teachers and anyone who works with young people with the tools and knowledge they need to navigate this important area with confidence and sensitivity.
Why is it important for teachers to understand masculinity?
Masculinity is not a static concept. It is shaped by societal norms, cultural expectations, and personal experiences. The definition of it differs across different cultures, religions and generations.
Traditionally across the west, boys have been taught to associate masculinity with toughness, independence, and emotional suppression. While some of these traits can be beneficial, an overemphasis on them can lead to harmful outcomes. Boys who feel pressured to conform to narrow definitions of masculinity may struggle with:
Emotional expression: Suppressing emotions can lead to mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and anger management challenges.
Relationships: Difficulty expressing vulnerability can hinder healthy friendships, romantic relationships, and family connections.
Academic engagement: Fear of appearing “weak” can limit boys from seeking help or engaging fully in the learning process.
Behavioural issues: Boys may act out or adopt harmful behaviors to assert dominance or gain approval from peers. From the 130+ schools we've worked with we've heard issues concerning misogynistic attitudes and behaviours towards female teachers and peers, as well as bullying, aggression, pack mentalities, and violence.
Understanding these pressures is critical for teachers and staff members who are often on the front lines of shaping boys’ development. With the right knowledge and strategies, teachers and staff members can play a pivotal role in challenging harmful stereotypes and promoting healthier, more inclusive understandings of masculinity, to help their male students develop positive identities.
What is healthy masculinity?
Healthy masculinity embraces a diverse and flexible approach to being male. It recognises that there is no single way to “be a man” and values traits like empathy, collaboration, and emotional authenticity. It is not about rejecting traditionally “masculine” traits like strength or leadership but about balancing them with qualities that contribute to a person’s well-being and the well-being of those around them, and living authentically in line with our personal values, rather than traditional ideas of masculinity.
A boy who understands healthy masculinity knows that he can:
Express his emotions and femininity (or things that could be perceived as "feminine") without fear of judgment.
Show kindness, care, and vulnerability without compromising his identity.
Seek help when he needs it.
Respect others, regardless of gender, and value diverse perspectives.
Define success and fulfilment on his own terms, free from societal pressures.
When boys embrace healthy masculinity, they are better equipped to navigate challenges, build strong relationships, and contribute positively to their communities.
How to approach conversations about masculinity with students
Starting conversations about masculinity can feel daunting, but it is an essential step toward creating a supportive and inclusive school culture. Here are some strategies teachers can use:
1. Create a safe and respectful environment
Before delving into discussions about masculinity, it is crucial to establish a culture of trust and respect. Students need to feel safe expressing their thoughts and experiences without fear of ridicule or retaliation. Ground rules for respectful dialogue, active listening, and open-mindedness can help set the tone. Emphasise that there’s no single 'right' way to be a boy or a girl, a man or a woman, and that everyone’s identity journey is unique.
2. Start with questions, not assumptions
Rather than imposing definitions or ideas, invite students to share their own thoughts and experiences. Questions like:
“What do you think it means to be a man?”
“What messages do boys get about how they should behave?”
“What happens when boys don’t fit those expectations?”
These questions encourage reflection and open up opportunities to challenge stereotypes collaboratively.
3. Introduce role models and stories
Ask students to share the male role models in their life, or the men who inspire them. Unpack what it is about these people that your students look up to. Share your own examples of men who embody healthy masculinity, whether they are historical figures, community leaders, or fictional characters. Highlight traits like empathy, courage, and collaboration, and discuss how these qualities have contributed to their success and impact. Some of our favourites are people like Jordan Stephens, Joe Marler, Dwayne the Rock Johnson and Bukayo Saka.
4. Discuss social media and cultural influences
Social media plays a significant role in shaping boys’ perceptions of masculinity. Encourage students to critically analyse the messages they receive from their social media apps, movies, TV shows, and advertising. Ask:
“How are men and boys portrayed?”
“What traits are celebrated or criticised?”
“How do these portrayals affect the way boys see themselves and others?”
5. Model healthy masculinity
Teachers’ and staff members' actions speak louder than words. Male teachers, in particular, have a unique opportunity to model healthy masculinity through their behaviour. Demonstrating emotional openness, collaborative problem-solving, and respect for all genders can profoundly influence students.
6. Integrate these conversations into broader topics
Rather than treating masculinity as a standalone topic, integrate it into broader discussions about identity, relationships, mental health, and social justice. This approach helps students see the interconnectedness of these issues and normalises conversations about gender. It can also help male students compartmentalise conversations about masculinity with being told off or scorned.
Voicebox’s teacher training programme: empowering educators
Our Teacher Training Programme is a game-changer for teachers who want to tackle unhealthy masculinity and misogyny effectively. This 3 hour interactive training is available both online and in-person, making it accessible to teachers, youth workers, and anyone working with young people.
Programme highlights:
Part 1: Exploring masculinity in today’s context
Teachers gain a clear understanding of the current landscape of masculinity, including the unique challenges boys face today. This session provides:
Insights into the gendered pressures boys encounter.
Context for the challenges educators face in addressing harmful behaviours.
Tools to recognise how societal expectations shape boys’ attitudes and actions.
Part 2: Shifting perceptions and motivating boys
This session equips teachers with practical strategies to:
Look beyond boys’ surface behaviours and understand the underlying factors.
Address negative stereotypes that limit boys’ motivation and engagement.
Foster a growth-oriented classroom environment where boys feel supported and valued.
Participants learn how to:
Encourage boys to embrace their values and authenticity.
Promote empathy and care as strengths that enhance mental health and relationships.
Recognise and address harmful behaviours while providing constructive support.
Why this training matters
The training empowers teachers and staff members to:
Create environments where all students feel valued and respected.
Support boys in developing healthier, more inclusive understandings of masculinity.
Build a positive school and group culture that rejects misogyny and celebrates diversity.
Practical tips for promoting healthy masculinity in schools and youth groups
Beyond training, teachers can implement these practices to promote healthy masculinity:
Incorporate social-emotional learning (SEL): Teach skills like empathy, conflict resolution, and self-awareness.
Celebrate diverse achievements: Recognise students for a wide range of accomplishments, from academic success to acts of kindness.
Challenge gender norms: Encourage boys and girls to explore interests and activities without fear of judgment.
Collaborate with parents and caregivers: Share insights and resources with families to reinforce positive messages at home.
A call to action for teachers
Promoting healthy masculinity is not a one-time effort; it requires ongoing commitment, reflection, and collaboration. By working to create an environment that values empathy, authenticity, and respect, teachers and staff members can help boys develop into confident, caring young men who contribute positively to their communities.
Our Teacher Training Programme provides the guidance and resources staff members need to make a lasting impact. By addressing unhealthy masculinity and promoting inclusive values, we can create schools where all students thrive.
Ready to take the next step? Explore our Teacher Training Programme today and join the movement to build a brighter, more equitable future for all young people.
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