The topic of social construction is considered to be discussed more deeply in line with awareness of mental health. It can be seen from the social media Instagram, where many accounts related to mental health discuss issues in society in various circles. Social construction that is believed by the community sometimes brings cultural flows that have a bad impact. One of them is related to toxic masculinity.

Toxic masculinity is the result of a set of rules that determine what a man should (standard) be like. Indonesia with a strong patriarchal society culture contributes to this social construction. Examples of toxic masculinity views:

· A man cannot express emotions openly

· A man must be tough every time

· A man should not seek warmth, comfort, or tenderness

· A man should not depend on others. Asking for help is a weakness

· A man must be victorious or dominant in sports, work, relationships, and sex

· Risky actions (cigarettes, races, drugs) make men cooler

The term Toxic masculinity comes from a psychologist named Shepherd Bliss in 1990 who was used to distinguish and separate positive and negative values from male gender.

Three core components of Toxic masculinity:

· Toughness: A man must be physically strong, heartless, aggressive behavior

· Anti Feminity: A man should reject anything feminine

· Power (Power): A man must fight for power and status

Why is toxic masculinity dangerous?

Can increase the risk:

· Reluctant to go to professional help

· Harboring emotions

· Mental disorders

· Sexual violence

· Low empathy

· Feeling alone

· Drug abuse, etc. .

The impact of toxic masculinity can cause depression to suicide in victims who experience masculine stigma in a society supported by patriarchal culture.

On the other hand, the development of the times brings changes to lifestyle and perspective. For example, appearance and skin care (skin care) are not only noticed by women, but also men. Men's skin care products are increasingly diverse and used for young people and working men, especially if appearance is an important thing in supporting work. Mental health activists also encourage men to be able to express emotions purposefully, pay attention to their own needs, and reduce wrong views in society. Toxic masculinity is already entrenched in society and needs efforts to reduce its adverse effects in the future.

Author: Yosua A. Simamora, S.Tr.Sos

Reference:

Https://yunoya.id/lifestyle/life/mengenal-toxic-masculinity/

Https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/talking-sex-and-relationships/202103/what-is-toxic-masculinity

https://www.instagram.com/p/CQ54Rc_MknS/? igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

https://elibrary.unikom.ac.id/id/eprint/4897/7/UNIKOM_41816263_ELI%20CHANDRA%20IKA_BAB%20I.pdf