Which of the following statements accurately reflect the concept of hegemonic masculinity and its implications in society? Select all that apply.

Hegemonic masculinity is a concept that describes the dominant form of masculinity in a particular culture, which often emphasizes traits like strength, aggression, and the need to control. This idea suggests that society values these traits in men, leading to the belief that they must act tough and powerful to be considered "real men. " As a result, men who don’t fit this mold may feel pressured to change their behavior or face social consequences, while women and other genders can also be negatively affected by these rigid standards. For example, a boy might feel he must avoid showing emotions or vulnerability because he believes that doing so would make him less of a man. In this way, hegemonic masculinity not only shapes individual identities but also influences broader social dynamics, reinforcing inequalities and limiting everyone’s freedom to express themselves authentically.