Education, masculinities and violence in the National University of Mexico

Abstract

This article is part of a large research project on the various forms of violence encountered in the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM). From the standpoint of critical masculinities and some of the basic proposals of feminist research, such as the notion of a continuum and the persistence of sexist structures and harassment practices, a review of the most relevant aspects of three theoretical approaches is attempted: hegemonic masculinity, manhood acts theory, and male peer support. A three-pronged educational model that simultaneously looks at ideals, strategies, and alliances is thus proposed to tackle the discussion on masculinities and lead the struggle against the various forms of violence. Our critique leads to a revision of “multiple masculinities” vis-à-vis recent proposals that question the toxicity/positivity dichotomy and advance hybridity as an option. The article ends by outlining the three-pronged model, starting with the strategies of naming and self-reflection.