Masculinity Around the World

Ralph De Haas, Victoria Baranov, Ieda Matavelli and Pauline Grosjean

No 12906, CESifo Working Paper Series from CESifo

Abstract: We examine how masculinity norms—the social expectations about how men should behave—predict economic, health, and political outcomes. We field the Global Masculinity Survey, covering 125,000 individuals across 70 countries, to measure adherence to core masculinity norms. Economically, men who adhere more strongly to these norms supply more labor, earn more, and sort into traditionally masculine occupations. However, they take greater health risks and report poorer mental health. Politically, they express stronger support for strongman authoritarianism and military rule. Adherence to masculinity norms is stronger among men exposed to war or economic recession during their impressionable years.

Keywords: masculinity; gender norms; gender gaps; labor supply; health; political preferences (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: D91 I12 J16 J24 Z13 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
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