Fighting Stereotypes: Expressions of Femininity in Public Spaces and the Challenge of Toxic Masculinity

This qualitative descriptive research aims to discover the process of toxic masculinity in public spaces. The research was conducted in Teluk Ambon District, Ambon, Maluku. The source of data is taken from primary and secondary data. Data were collected from interviews, observation, and documentation. The data analysis technique uses three stages, such as data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion. The results show that the process of toxic masculinity in the public space starts with the social construction of patriarchy that affects male attitudes and behavior, masculine stigma supported by patriarchal culture, and the internalization of masculine values that lead to violence, aggressiveness, and dominance. It can be seen that the social construction of patriarchy in Negeri Rumahtiga has a significant impact on men's experiences and perceptions of themselves. The masculine stigma supported by patriarchy in Negeri Rumahtiga reflects the strict restrictions on what is considered "male" and "female" in society. The internalization of masculine values that leads to violence, aggressiveness, and dominance in Negeri Rumahtiga is influenced by social and cultural pressures. Keywords: Toxic Masculinity, Patriarchy, Stigma, Internalization