Toxic Masculinity Talk

During PSHE this week the boys in Years 9 to Upper Sixth attended a talk in Main Hall by Dr Aric Sigman on ‘Toxic Masculinity’.

The topic seeks to combat the idea that men need to act tough, hide their emotions and neglect their physical and mental wellbeing in the name of ‘manliness’. The three main components that the toxic masculinity embraces are:

1. The idea that men will gain respect from others by working towards obtaining social and financial power and status
2. The idea that men should reject anything considered to be remotely feminine such as aksing for help or showing emotion
3. The idea that men should be behaviourally aggressive and physically strong

Aric’s talk aimed to debunk these myths and to help the boys to better understand male psychology and their natural sexual feelings whilst also providing an insight into the sexual psychology of girls and how and why it may differ from their own.

Diversity and Inclusion Officer, Shaun Dellenty, who attended the talk, commented, “An engaging and powerful talk. Dr Sigman enabled a safe space for students to reflect upon the varied (and often complex) expectations faced by young men in schools, families, communities and online. Dr Sigman highlighted the importance of mutually respectful friendships and consensual, age-appropriate healthy relationships. Students reflected upon healthy sexual and emotional development, relevant legislation, gender related stereotypes and the need to uphold the dignity and rights of others when negotiating relationships.”