Exploring the Adherence to Masculine Norms and Emotional Expression of Male College Students

This study explores the relationship between adherence to traditional masculine norms and emotional expression among young Filipino men. Grounded in theories linking masculinity to self-reliance and emotional restraint, it investigated how these norms influence emotional suppression. Using a descriptive-correlational design, data were gathered from 100 male students at the University of the Cordilleras through stratified sampling across academic disciplines. Participants completed the Conformity to Masculine Norms Inventory-22 and the Emotional Expressivity Scale, with factor analysis addressing scale overlap. Findings revealed high adherence to masculine norms emphasizing emotional control, work-oriented identity, and independence. While students rejected hypermasculine ideals related to dominance and promiscuity, they continued to conform to emotionally restrictive expectations. Results showed that high Emotional Expressivity Scale scores reflected emotional suppression rather than expression. After adjusting for shared variance, a strong positive correlation (r = 0.783, p < .001) was found between masculine norm adherence and emotional suppression, especially for Work, Status, and Reliance factors. These results indicate that although overt dominance is declining, the emotional restraint central to traditional masculinity persists. The study underscores the enduring influence of masculine norms on emotional behavior and highlights the need for culturally grounded interventions that promote emotional openness and healthier masculine identity development.