How does the concept of hegemonic masculinity interact with gender socialization and intersectionality to shape societal expectations of male behavior?

Hegemonic masculinity refers to the dominant form of masculinity that is often seen as the ideal for men in society. This concept interacts with gender socialization, which is the process through which individuals learn the behaviors and expectations associated with their gender. For example, boys may be encouraged to be tough and competitive from a young age, reinforcing the idea that being masculine means being strong and unemotional. Intersectionality plays a role by showing that different identities, like race or class, can change how these expectations are experienced; for instance, a boy from a wealthy background may face different pressures than one from a working-class background. Together, these ideas shape the way society expects men to behave, often limiting their emotional expression and reinforcing stereotypes.