Evolving Perspectives: Unpacking Young Men's Perspectives on Feminism


Molly Heaney-Corns, University of Victoria

It is generally accepted that the relationship between men and feminism has gone through various iterations throughout history. When considering the complex relationship between men and feminism by virtue of their gender identity, it is evident that men occupy a unique role in feminist activism and allyship (Holmgren and Hearn 2009). Specifically, they exist as both objects of critique, due to their roles as perpetrators of gender inequality, as well as subjects who experience inequality as a result of oppressive gender norms dictated by the same patriarchal structure that oppresses women (Holmgren and Hearn 2009). When the organized feminist movement initially emerged in North America in the early 1900s, it was met with significant backlash from men who felt that they were being pushed out of their traditional gender roles (Messner 2016). However, this initial emotional response has since evolved in some spaces. As feminist movements in North America have continued to develop in the decades following, men’s emotional response to feminism has shifted to reflect social trends (Messner 2016). Research has indicated that from the late 1990s onward, while the majority of men in North America would not take up the label of feminist, they would sympathize with many issues that are addressed by feminist movements, thus signifying a shift in men’s relationship to feminism in North America (Brod and Kaufman 1994, Kimmel 2010). This is often attributed to generations becoming progressively more liberal following the women’s movement, and by virtue of increased access to education, more widespread liberal values, and awareness of social issues (Bettencourt, Vacha-Haase and Bryne 2011). Hence, younger generations may not have the same resistance to change as older generations (Bettencourt et al 2011). However, while scholars argue that generations are progressively becoming more inclusive, and thus more accepting of feminism, there is a need to test this theory through research (Bettencourt et al 2011, Brod and Kaufman 1994, Kimmel 2010). This research delves into the perspectives of 13 young men enrolled at the University of Victoria, exploring their perceptions of feminism. Through semi-structured interviews, men discussed in depth their perspectives on feminism in an attempt to explore whether men have become more progressive, and thus more likely to support feminism, over time. The data reveals that this sample of young men commonly reflected comfort in discussing past waves of feminism and appreciation for feminist ideas, but expressed hesitation at the prospect of self-labelling as feminists. Often, men noted this hesitation stemmed from a lack of certainty over the correct way to perform allyship, as well as fear of backlash from other men for straying from prescribed gender norms. Thus, the results of this study support prior research demonstrating that men’s responses to feminism do not exist as two polarized destinations of positive or negative, but rather they exist on and around a continuum of relationships between men, feminism, society and so forth (Holmgren and Hearn 2009). However, the results of this study also suggest that within this sample, young men also demonstrate a similar tension highlighted in earlier research wherein men are increasingly comfortable with feminism in concept, but not willing to identify as feminists (Brod and Kaufman 1994). While men commonly identified as feeling uncomfortable identifying as feminists, they also expressed a desire to be better allies. Thus, this research contributes to existing literature exploring the interplay of power dynamics and privilege in allyship, shedding light on the complex interactions between individual perceptions, societal influences, and prevailing norms. As sociologists and society more generally look to foster more equitable futures, there is value in understanding nuance in categories of privilege, and how those who experience privilege feel mobilized to engage in allyship to build a better future.

Non-presenting author: Steve Garlick, University of Victoria

This paper will be presented at the following session: