Researchers at the University of British Columbia explored how men view gender roles in intimate relationships. They identified three distinct masculinities—neo-traditional, egalitarian, and progressive—and examined how each style shapes behavior and well-being. The study’s findings were shared in a peer-reviewed journal focused on social science and medicine, signaling that these patterns have implications for mental health and relationship satisfaction.
Participants included ninety-two heterosexual men, ages nineteen to forty-three, drawn from a wide range of cultural backgrounds. Through in-depth interviews, the researchers mapped how men describe their beliefs about gender, household responsibility, and reciprocity in partnerships. The three identified orientations are defined as follows: neo-traditional men tend to embrace traditional gender roles and expectations; egalitarian men strive for more balanced partnerships with a strong emphasis on mutual respect and shared decision-making; and progressive men actively work to foster gender equality through ongoing, constructive conversations that address power dynamics and everyday fairness.
The study uncovered important links between these masculinities and mental well-being. Men who actively pursue gender equality and social justice reported higher levels of psychological well-being, a sense of belonging, and overall satisfaction in their relationships. In contrast, neo-traditionalists often experience social scrutiny or isolation, which can negatively affect mood and mental health. The egalitarian group, while aiming for equality, sometimes grapples with practical questions about how to equitably distribute domestic tasks, particularly when partners default to traditional routines or have different expectations about housework sharing.
These insights point to a nuanced landscape where beliefs about gender roles intersect with personal health. The findings also suggest that the path to healthier relationships may involve shared communication strategies, mutual support for evolving norms, and ongoing dialogues about expectations at home. When couples approach chores, responsibilities, and power with openness, both members can experience reduced conflict and greater emotional safety.
The discussion around gender roles is not new, but this research adds perspective by comparing distinct masculine norms within contemporary relationships. It highlights that mental health correlates are not uniform across men and that personal growth often aligns with collaborative problem-solving and reflective conversations about equity. As with any social pattern, context matters, including family history, cultural background, and the broader community environment. Researchers emphasize that acknowledging and addressing these dynamics can support healthier outcomes for men and their partners alike.
Ancient scientists documented methods to study how mental disorders might affect sexual function, but modern research now emphasizes lived experience, relationship dynamics, and evidence-based approaches to mental health in the context of intimate partnerships.