THE IMPACT OF MASCULINITY IN IDENTITY FORMATION, HEALTH BEHAVIORS AND OUTCOMES IN THE MASCULINE IDENTITY FORMATION – IN RELATION TO ‘BOYS DON’T CRY’ (1999) AND ‘THE MASK YOU LIVE IN’ (2015)

This study critically investigates the impact of masculinity on identity affirmation and the impact of men's health behaviours and outcomes in masculine identity formation concerning the movies, ‘Boys Don't Cry’ (1999) and ‘The Mask You Live In’ (2015). The objective of the study is to examine the dichotomy between stereotypical masculinity and its effect on the physical and psychological disposition of males. It further elaborates on the possibility of constructing an alternative masculinity model that can improve men's health. As a qualitative research paradigm, the study employs Content analysis and Thematic analysis to analyze diversified narrative structures to identify the impact of violence, relationships, vulnerability, and emotional enticements in both films to explore the capability to reconstruct physical and psychological spaces for men. The findings of the study reveal that both films articulate a critical portrayal of traditional masculinity and the negative consequences of the identity formation of males. ‘Boys Don't Cry’ depicts the protagonist's adherence to masculine norms as a significant barrier to seeking help for his physical and mental health issues, ultimately leading to tragic consequences. Simultaneously, ‘The Mask You Live In’ suggests the impact of toxic masculinity on young males and how they are socialized into behaviours and attitudes that can lead to negative health outcomes such as substance abuse and depression that criticize the narrow identification of masculinity. In conclusion, both films highlight the necessity to have more nuanced and intersectional approaches to understand the complex rapport of identity formation, masculinity and the health of males to promote positive models of masculinity.