Do masculinities matter? A look at the implications for involving men in gender-orientated development practice

Abstract

This thesis focuses on the implications of further involving men and masculinities in gender research and practice. Gender and Development, or GAD is a sub-field within International Development that theoretically focuses on gender relations, although historically it has mainly steered its attention towards women. In the last decade or so a discourse on whether an increased focus on the engendered lives of men. I look critically at the implications for gender equality and development effort in involving men’s gendered realities in GAD work. I found that there are potential risks for GAD’s main clientele; women in developing countries, if a careful approach is not adhered. These risks are outlined in my thesis where I draw upon research by leading scholars in masculinity studies and GAD. The current GAD discourse suggests that although there is potential for failure, the potential gains for gender equality are immense. I argue that by looking critically at masculinities and men’s gendered lives, a potential for various health and social benefits in development effort arises.