NCJ Number
227852
Journal
Journal of Social Issues Volume: 59 Issue: 1 Dated: 2003 Pages: 179-195
Date Published
2003
Length
17 pages
Annotation
This qualitative analysis of data from a study of masculinity in 11-14-year-old boys attending 12 London (England) schools focused on their experiences of feeling threatened by daily practices in school and their experiences of bullying associated with homophobia.
Abstract
The study found that homophobic name-calling provided a quick, easy way for boys to claim masculinity. For this reason, many boys believe it is important to use homophobic abuse of targeted boys to confirm and strengthen their own masculine status. The study also found that homophobia was linked to the need to distinguish between masculine and feminine traits as a frame of reference for achieving masculine status. The boys went to great lengths to avoid being labeled "gay." Apparently, anxiety about not being masculine enough to pass the test for masculinity is a significant issue for many boys. Thus, the study indicates that boys experience schools as threatening environments where they feel constantly measured by their compliance with masculine traits. The boys reported that teachers in the schools in which the study was conducted did not view homophobic name calling as bullying, so no sanctions were imposed on those who did it. Teachers must be trained to address this issue constructively, since this pervasive anxiety among boys can impede positive adjustment in the school environment. Regarding research methodology, the study found that the boys were generally more serious and willing to reveal their emotions in individual interviews compared with group interviews. Forty-five group discussions were held with 245 boys, and 2 individual interviews were conducted with each of 78 boys. 40 references