Matriculating Masculinity: Understanding Undergraduate Men's Precollege Gender Socialization

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Author(s): Harris, III, F., & Harper, S. R.

Citation: Harris, III, F., & Harper, S. R. (2015). Matriculating Masculinity: Understanding Undergraduate Men's Precollege Gender Socialization. Journal of The First-Year Experience & Students in Transition, 27(2), 49-65.

 

Abstract

Social scientists, educational researchers, postsecondary educators (including student affairs professionals), and others have attempted to understand problematic behavioral trends and developmental outcomes among undergraduate men. Little attention has been devoted to examining the masculine identities and ideals about manhood that these students bring to college contexts, hence the purpose of this study. The sample comprised 68 undergraduate men representing a range of backgrounds and subgroups. Findings indicate that parental influences, interactions with same-sex peers, and involvement in youth sports were socializing factors informing ideas about masculinity that students brought with them to college. Recommendations for supporting the college transitions and gender identity development of undergraduate men are offered.

 

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