Redefining Strength: Why healthy masculinity matters so much for the next generation

The Netflix drama Adolescence really brought this topic to the fore, and with award season coming up, there’s sure to be another big bounce in the headlines and column inches it attracts. As we see outstanding young actor Owen Cooper being crowned the youngest ever Emmy nominee, have we made any progress since the show first aired, what are the next steps, and what happens when the media frenzy moves on?

 

Conversations about masculinity, especially within the younger age groups, are more important than ever. For decades, young men have been handed narrow definitions of what it means to “be a man”—stoic, aggressive, dominant, unemotional. While these traits may be associated with traditional masculinity, they can also contribute to emotional suppression, unhealthy relationships, and even violence. That’s why it’s essential to introduce the concept of healthy masculinity.

So, what is healthy masculinity?
Healthy masculinity is about embracing the traits traditionally seen as “masculine” like strength, leadership, and courage – while balancing them with empathy, vulnerability, respect, and emotional intelligence. It challenges harmful stereotypes and creates room for boys and men to express their full humanity.

When we talk to young people about healthy masculinity, we open the door to healthier lives, better relationships, and stronger communities.

The Cost of Toxic Messages

From an early age, boys are often told not to cry, not to show weakness, and to “man up.” These messages are hugely damaging. They teach young men that emotional expression is a sign of failure, which can lead to bottled-up feelings, isolation, and, in some cases, anger or aggression. Research consistently links these outdated notions of masculinity with higher risks of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and even suicide among men.

It’s clear that we need a new model—one where being masculine doesn’t mean rejecting emotion, but rather understanding it.

Why Talk to Young People Now?

The teenage years are formative. This is when identity is shaped, values are tested, and peer influence is strong. If we wait until adulthood to challenge harmful gender norms, it might be too late. But if we engage young people early, we can help them build a strong, healthy foundation. Fast Forward also underpin this work with female input.

Healthy masculinity encourages open communication, mutual respect, and a rejection of violence and control. These are values that can reduce bullying, sexual harassment, and domestic abuse—all of which are deeply tied to societal expectations of “manhood.”

The Role of Peer Pressure

Peer pressure and toxic masculinity are closely linked, as social expectations can push people towards gender norms that could be harmful. Young people often don’t recognise peer pressure, as our research has found. Males may feel compelled to suppress emotions, display aggression, or engage in risk taking behaviours to “prove” their masculinity to peers. This pressure reinforces toxic masculinity by promoting dominance, emotional repression, and rejection of vulnerability. In group settings, like schools or sports teams, failure to conform can result in ridicule or exclusion. Ultimately, peer pressure sustains a cycle where toxic masculine traits are the norm, limiting personal expression and damaging relationships and mental health for everyone involved.

Leading by Example

Parents, educators, mentors, and public figures all have a role to play. Boys need to see examples of men who lead with kindness, own their mistakes, and treat others—regardless of gender—with respect. It’s not enough to say “be a good man.” We have to show them what that looks like in real life.

Books, movies, and social media, while highlighted as a driving force behind this movement, can also be powerful tools. Representation matters. The more diverse images of masculinity we present, the more permission boys feel to be fully themselves.

A Better Future for Everyone

Healthy masculinity isn’t just about helping boys. It’s about creating a culture where everyone feels safe, valued, and free to be their authentic selves. When young men learn that their true strength lies in compassion, responsibility, and integrity, the ripple effects benefits communities.

We have been working hard with the University of Florida, producing two thought-provoking reports:

2025 Report & Review Peer Pressure

2025 Report & Review Positive Masculinity

It’s time we give boys permission to be whole. It’s time we talk openly, honestly, and often about what it really means to be a man.

If the young people you work with could benefit from tailored sessions, we’d love to hear from you. We offer a range of sessions covering risk taking behaviours, all with a harm reduction approach.