Toxic masculinity refers to a set of harmful beliefs and behaviours that exaggerate traditional ideas of what it means to be a man. It’s rooted in old-fashioned gender roles, but taken to unhealthy extremes — promoting dominance, aggression, and emotional suppression rather than empathy, equality, or self-awareness.
As society has progressed, freedoms and rights for women and LGBTQ+ people have expanded. For some men, however, these changes are seen not as steps forward but as personal threats. In previous centuries, men held far greater legal, social, and economic power — they were widely viewed as stronger, smarter, and more rational. Losing that dominance can feel, to some, like losing their identity.
Within the culture of toxic masculinity, the “ideal man” is strong, heterosexual, confident, and either the main breadwinner or the only one. He’s supposed to have “manly” interests like sport, cars, or fitness — and to dismiss anything seen as “feminine,” such as empathy, cooperation or creativity. For some, showing any emotional vulnerabilities is weak. In this worldview, figures like Arnold Schwarzenegger or Sylvester Stallone are seen as peak masculinity, while someone like Harry Styles or Andrew Garfield might be mocked for being “soft” or “weak.”
Depending on where you are, this idea of the perfect man can also include being patriotic or deeply religious. For some, their beliefs are reinforced by traditional interpretations of religious texts that portray patriarchy as the “natural order” of society.
Men who buy into this culture often label themselves as “alpha males,” positioning others as “beta” or inferior. The term comes from outdated wolf studies that suggested strict dominance hierarchies within packs — a myth later disproven. In reality, wolf “alphas” are parents who guide rather than dominate. The irony is that the “alpha” image many men aspire to is based on flawed science in the first place.
Public figures who embody or promote this mindset have huge platforms. Andrew Tate, a former kickboxer from Luton, is one of the most prominent examples. With millions of followers on X (formerly Twitter), he frequently tells men to dominate women and assert control in relationships. Dubbed by many as the “king of toxic masculinity,” Tate has also faced multiple serious legal accusations and investigations related to abuse and human trafficking.
There are others, too, who preach similar “tough guy” ideals but don’t necessarily live up to the image themselves — from Piers Morgan (who famously stormed off live TV after being challenged) to Donald Trump (who some call a nepo baby, having inherited his wealth and successful businesses from his father), Jake Paul(a YouTube influencer turned boxer), Alex Jones(an American conspiracy theorist), and Jeremy Clarkson. Many of these figures lean toward the political right and appeal to audiences who feel alienated by mainstream media or social progress. Their followers often overlook the hypocrisy of these influencers because they identify with the anger or nostalgia behind their message.
Ultimately, toxic masculinity harms everyone — including the men who embrace it. By equating strength with dominance and kindness with weakness, it traps men in a narrow emotional box. It discourages vulnerability, empathy, and real connection — qualities that make relationships and communities thrive.
The good news? Conversations around gender and identity are changing. More men are recognising that being strong doesn’t mean being unfeeling, and that masculinity can evolve without losing its value. True confidence comes from balance — not control.
