Second, traditional constructs of masculinity cause
problems for men’s mental health, especially those
of lower socio-economic status. Men’s social roles
are more inflexible than women’s, with more
pressure on men to conform and thus more
negative psychological or social consequences for
men who fail to attain conventional masculinity.
There is a large and unbridgeable gap between the
culturally authorised idea of ‘hegemonic
masculinity’ and the reality of everyday survival for
men in crisis. Honour is part of masculinity, and
requires public affirmation and validation before
other men. Loss of masculine status through
relationship breakdown results in a sense of shame.
For some men, a life of shame and dishonour is seen
to be a life not worth living