Faith and Form: Exploring the Impact of Religiosity on Toxic Masculinity in Young Men
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Authors
Mir, Ashar
Issue Date
2025
Type
Capstone
Language
en
Keywords
religiosity , intrinsic religiosity , extrinsic religiosity , toxic masculinity , masculine discrepancy, , youth mental health
Alternative Title
Abstract
This literature review examines whether and how religiosity influences the manifestation of toxic masculinity among older adolescents and young men. Guided by hegemonic masculinity and Allport’s intrinsic-extrinsic framework, the review synthesizes empirical studies psychology, sociology, and public health, with an emphasis on peer-reviewed work addressing masculinity and religiosity in young men between the ages of 15 and 30. Methods involved a systematic search, selection, and critical evaluation of qualitative, longitudinal, cross-sectional and meta-analytic studies. Findings indicate that religiosity operates through three different pathways: religious socialization, religious coping and community support and the mechanisms of influence. Evidence suggests variable effects, where intrinsic religiosity often buffers discrepancy stress and fosters alternative masculinities, whereas extrinsic religiosity may reduce behavioural risks but can also reinforce restrictive, traditional gender norms. Limitations across studies involve reliance on cross-sectional designs, single-item religiosity measures, and culturally specific samples. Overall, the review highlights the potential of religiosity to both buffer and reinforce toxic masculinity, underscoring the necessity for nuanced clinical assessment and faith-integrated interventions. Future research should employ longitudinal, mixed-methods, and intervention-based designs to gain deeper insights into these dynamics.
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Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 United States
openAccess
openAccess