What are societal norms suggesting that men must be strong and dominate referred to as?

The concept of societal norms that dictate that men must be strong and dominant aligns with the term "hegemonic male." This term refers to the cultural ideal of masculinity that emphasizes traits such as aggression, control, and authority. Within this framework, hegemonic masculinity serves to maintain the supremacy of certain male identities while marginalizing others, including women and alternative masculinities that do not conform to traditional expectations.

These societal expectations reinforce power dynamics and establish standards that men are often pressured to meet, shaping their behavior and identity within the social context. Understanding hegemonic masculinity is crucial in sociology because it highlights how these norms influence individuals and societal structures, affecting gender relations and perpetuating inequalities.

By recognizing hegemonic masculinity, sociologists can analyze the implications of these norms on both men and society, illustrating how they contribute to systemic gender roles and expectations.