Understanding the connection between hegemonic masculinity and intimate partner violence in Bangladesh


Zerrin Akter Anni, University of British Columbia

Hegemonic masculinity represents the idealized and culturally accepted notion of what it means to be a man in a particular society at a given time. It often involves characteristics such as strength, toughness, dominance, emotional resilience, and heterosexuality. This construct plays a pivotal role in shaping gender norms and behaviors, contributing to the prevalence of violence against women or any form of intimate partner violence. The concept of violent manhood further reinforces the idea that men should conform to a narrow set of behaviors that prioritize strength and toughness over qualities like empathy, communication, and emotional expression. In Bangladeshi society, the notion of hegemonic masculinity has been existing for a long time and it has contributed to serious forms of violence against women in recent years. While extensive empirical research has delved into the theoretical dimensions of violent manhood and hegemonic masculinity, much of this inquiry has been centered around Western societies. The exploration of historical and cultural contexts surrounding intimate partner violence in South Asia has been notably lacking, hindering attempts to contextualize gender norms and masculine characteristics in the region. This research seeks to address this gap by elucidating how the evolution of hegemonic masculinity and violent manhood is intricately linked to contemporary intimate partner violence in South Asia, particularly in Bangladesh. The methodology employed in this research involves a qualitative study based on secondary data analysis, incorporating theoretical insights from scholars such as Buttler, Connell, Sumerau, and others. By drawing upon established theories and frameworks, the research aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the complex interplay between masculinity, violence, and intimate partner relationships in the Bangladeshi context. The findings of this research underscore a strong connection between physical violence perpetrated by men against their spouses and the perpetuation of a gender system and cultural milieu that rationalizes husbands dominance over their wives. It contends that the normalization of violence within intimate relationships is intricately linked to the perpetuation of hegemonic masculinity. The arguments are centred around the fact that the notion of masculinity is not just a static entity ingrained solely in the biological or personality traits of individuals. Instead, hegemonic masculinities are dynamic configurations of practices shaped by structural, cultural, and various other forces. These forces, in turn, may vary based on the unique gender relations within a particular social setting. By examining the nexus between hegemonic masculinity, violent manhood, and intimate partner violence, this research not only expands our understanding of hegemonic masculinity and violent manhood but also emphasizes the urgency of addressing these issues within the specific socio-cultural context of Bangladesh. The findings pave the way for further research and interventions that consider the unique cultural and historical factors shaping gender dynamics in Bangladesh. The implications of these findings extend beyond academia, calling for context-specific interventions and policies that aim to dismantle harmful norms. Moreover, this research serves as a crucial step towards fostering an environment where individuals can redefine their roles in intimate relationships, contributing to a more inclusive society.

This paper will be presented at the following session: