The Myth of Masculinity.

Abstract

In this book, Joseph Pleck examines and analyzes the full body of research literature on the role that has appeared since the 1930s and subjects it to a devastating critique. He identifies the components of the male role paradigm which has been the basis of research for the past forty years, and notes numerous instances of blatant misrepresentation of data, twisted reinterpretations of disconfirming results, misogyny, homophobia, and class bias. He proposes a new theory, the sex role strain paradigm, offers a reinterpretation of role stereotyping, and a critique of research by sociobiologists that allegedly demonstrates a biological basis for aggression.