AN IMAGINED GRIEVANCE
Based on this research, then, it seems like promoting rigid masculinity in the workplace is not the best solution for an arguably already struggling Meta.
What, then, led Zuckerberg to claim that the workplace has been neutered and must be infused with masculine energy? Has the American office really gone full Legally Blonde?
Zuckerberg’s own company isn’t exactly a paragon of parity: Its total workforce, as of 2022, was nearly two-thirds male, while its tech workforce was three-quarters male.
Furthermore, according to psychologists Sapna Cheryan and Hazel Markus, workplaces in the US still reflect what they call “masculine defaults” – cultures that reward characteristics or behaviours generally associated with men.
This can range from how companies describe themselves – for example, as places that are “aggressive” and “unrestrained” – to hosting events catering to traditionally male pursuits, such as golf outings.
Although Cheryan and Markus’ analysis centres on how masculine defaults make it harder for women to carve out their professional paths, they can harm everybody, including men.
My research, for example, has shown that when men feel pressured to fulfil certain masculine expectations, they can develop fragile masculine identities, which are linked with aggression and anxiety.
Although the pervasiveness of masculinity norms can give men an upper hand in the workplace, I wonder whether men are contorting themselves to fit into outdated moulds of who succeeds at work. Indeed, research shows that successful organisations promote a healthy mix of stereotypically masculine and feminine qualities.
In other words, it’s best when people of all genders feel comfortable showcasing traits such as cooperation and agency, qualities that don’t necessarily fall into one gender camp.
