Last updated on April 14th, 2024 at 06:30 am
One way to assess the presence of toxicity in masculinity in a man is through the toxic masculinity test, and here is how it works.
This test is designed to help men like you identify harmful behaviours and attitudes that may be influencing your thoughts and actions.
By understanding these traits, you can work towards challenging and changing them to express a healthier way of being a man.
It also creates healthier, more positive relationships and improves your overall well-being as a man.
We have succinctly detailed what the toxic masculinity test is, how to take it, and why it is important to address the harmful and fragile behaviour of men in our society.
We will discuss the different aspects of toxic masculinity that the test assesses, as well as provide tips on how to navigate the results and work towards positive change.
Table of Contents
- What Is the Toxic Masculinity Test?
- Why Take the Toxic Masculinity Test?
- How the Toxic Masculinity Test Works
- How to Take the Toxic Masculinity Test
- Understanding the Results of the Toxic Masculinity Test
- Where to Take the Toxic Masculinity Test
- Moving Forward after Toxic Masculinity Test
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Word from Gentsways
What Is the Toxic Masculinity Test?
The toxic masculinity test is a tool that assesses how men align with harmful stereotypes and expectations associated with traditional ideas of the definition of a real man.
These traits can include aggression, dominance, emotional repression, and the devaluation of women and femininity.
The test is designed to help men recognize these behaviours and attitudes within themselves so that they can begin to address and change them.
Related: Emasculation of Men: The Role of Feminism
Why Take the Toxic Masculinity Test?
There are many reasons why you would want to take the toxic masculinity assessment.
Here is the importance:
1. Self-reflection: The toxic masculinity test prompts introspection, enhancing awareness of societal influences on behavior and attitudes, fostering self-awareness and insight into personal actions.
2. Personal Growth: Identifying toxic traits enables individuals to shed harmful patterns, embracing healthier masculinity for personal development and growth towards a more positive self-image.
3. Relationship Improvement: Addressing toxic masculinity promotes healthier communication and empathy, enriching relationships with partners, friends, and family through mutual respect and understanding.
4. Contribution to Societal Change: Embracing the test and committing to change supports broader societal goals, challenging harmful gender norms and fostering safer, more inclusive communities for all.
Related: How Toxic Masculinity Destroy Relationships
How the Toxic Masculinity Test Works
The test typically consists of a series of questions that ask participants to reflect on their beliefs, attitudes, and behaviours related to masculinity.
These questions may cover a range of topics, such as how you handle conflict, express emotions, view relationships, and interact with others.
By answering these questions honestly, you can gain insight into how toxic masculinity may be influencing your thoughts and actions.
Taking the harmful masculinity test can help you recognize harmful patterns in your behaviour.
It also helps you in attitudes, and interactions, allowing you to make more informed choices about how you express your masculinity.
By increasing self-awareness and understanding the impact of toxic masculinity, you can take steps towards creating healthier, more positive relationships and promoting gender equality.
Related: Identifying and Fighting Harmful Male Behaviour at Work
How to Take the Toxic Masculinity Test
Taking the toxic masculinity assessment is a valuable first step in addressing harmful behaviours and attitudes associated with toxic masculinity.
To take the test effectively, you should approach it with an open mind, honesty, and a willingness to reflect on your beliefs and behaviours.
Here are some steps to help you navigate the test successfully:
1. Find a Reliable and Reputable Source
When seeking to take the toxic masculinity assessment, it is essential to find a reliable and reputable source that provides a comprehensive assessment of harmful behaviours and attitudes associated with toxic masculinity.
Look for organizations, websites, or mental health professionals that offer validated tests and resources on masculinity and gender stereotypes.
2. Set Aside Time for Reflection
Taking the toxic masculinity test requires time and reflection to answer the questions thoughtfully and honestly.
Set aside a quiet and uninterrupted space to focus on the test, allowing yourself to reflect on your beliefs, attitudes, and behaviours related to masculinity.
3. Answer the Questions Honestly
The key to a meaningful assessment is answering the questions honestly.
Avoid trying to provide socially desirable responses or downplaying harmful behaviours and attitudes.
The purpose of the test is to help you gain insight into your thoughts and actions, so be candid in your responses.
4. Reflect on the Results
After completing the test, take time to reflect on the results and consider how they align with your self-perception and experiences.
Pay attention to any patterns or themes that emerge from your responses, as they may indicate areas where toxic masculinity is influencing your behaviour and attitudes.
5. Seek Support and Guidance
If you find that the results of the toxic masculinity test are challenging or evoke strong emotions, it can be helpful to seek support and guidance from a mental health professional, counselor, or trusted individual.
Processing the results with someone who can provide perspective and guidance can help you navigate the next steps towards positive change.
Also Read: How to Address the Emasculation of Men
Understanding the Results of the Toxic Masculinity Test
Once you have completed the toxic masculinity test and reflected on the results, it is essential to understand and interpret what they reveal about your beliefs, attitudes, and behaviours related to masculinity.
Here are some key aspects to consider when reflecting on the results:
1. Awareness of Harmful Behaviours and Attitudes
The results of the test may highlight harmful behaviours and attitudes associated with toxic masculinity that you were previously unaware of.
This awareness is a crucial first step in addressing and changing these patterns to promote healthier relationships and gender equality.
2. Impact on Relationships and Well-being
Reflect on how toxic masculinity may be influencing your relationships with others, as well as your own well-being.
Consider how traditional notions of masculinity may be limiting your emotional expression, communication style, and ability to connect with others in meaningful ways.
3. Reflection
Take time to reflect on each question and your responses.
Consider why you answered a certain way and how your beliefs and behaviours may be influenced by societal expectations of masculinity.
4. Education
Use the results of the toxic masculinity test as an opportunity to educate yourself on toxic male behaviour and its harmful effects on both individuals and society as a whole.
Seek out resources, articles, and discussions to deepen your understanding of this issue.
5. Action
Consider what steps you can take to challenge and unlearn toxic male behaviours in your own life.
This may involve challenging harmful beliefs, actively listening to others, and promoting healthier and more inclusive forms of masculinity.
Related: Toxic Masculinity in Relationships and How to Stop it
Where to Take the Toxic Masculinity Test
When considering reputable websites to take the toxic masculinity test, it’s essential to prioritize platforms that are credible, transparent about their methodology, and ethical considerations regarding mental health and well-being.
Here are some factors to consider when choosing a website:
1. Academic or Research Institutions: Websites affiliated with universities or reputable research institutions often provide well-validated tests with rigorous methodologies. Look for tests developed by psychologists or researchers specializing in gender studies or masculinity.
2. Nonprofit Organizations: Nonprofits dedicated to gender equality or mental health may offer reliable tests to promote awareness and positive change. These organizations often prioritize ethical considerations and may provide additional resources for support.
3. Government Health Agencies: In some countries, government health agencies provide online resources and tools for mental health assessment, including tests related to masculinity and gender norms.
4. Licensed Therapists or Counselors: Some licensed therapists or counselors offer online assessments as part of their practice including toxic masculinity test. While these may not always be freely accessible, they can provide personalized insights and guidance based on professional expertise.
5. Well-Known Mental Health Websites: Reputable mental health websites or platforms may feature validated tests on masculinity and related topics. Look for sites that provide clear information about the test’s development, validation process, and privacy policies.
NOTE: Before taking any test, it’s crucial to review the website’s privacy policy, terms of use, and disclaimers regarding the test’s intended purpose.
Additionally, consider consulting with mental health professionals or trusted individuals if you have concerns about the test or its implications for your well-being.
Moving Forward after Toxic Masculinity Test
After taking the toxic masculinity test and gaining insights into your attitudes and behaviours, it’s crucial to develop a plan for moving forward positively and constructively.
Here’s how:
Strategies for Unlearning Toxic Masculinity after the Test
- Continuously reflect on your thoughts, beliefs, and actions to identify instances of toxic masculinity.
- Engage in learning about healthy masculinity and gender equality through books, articles, workshops, or discussions.
- Practice open and empathetic communication with others, including active listening and expressing emotions authentically. Develop assertiveness while respecting others’ boundaries.
- Encourage honest feedback from trusted friends, family members, or professionals regarding your behavior and attitudes. Use constructive criticism as an opportunity for growth.
- Establish clear boundaries for yourself and respect the boundaries of others. Avoid behaviors that perpetuate power dynamics or coercion in relationships.
- Develop healthy coping mechanisms for managing stress, emotions, and conflicts without resorting to aggression, suppression, or avoidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you know if a guy has toxic masculinity?
Look for signs like aggression, dominance, and a reluctance to show vulnerability or emotion in their behaviour and attitudes.
Are there specific behaviours that indicate toxic masculinity in men?
Yes, such as disrespecting boundaries, objectifying women, suppressing emotions, and resorting to violence or aggression to assert dominance.
Can toxic masculinity be unlearned or changed?
Yes, through self-awareness, education, challenging harmful beliefs, seeking support, and actively practicing healthier behaviors and attitudes towards oneself and others.
How does toxic masculinity affect relationships and society?
It can lead to unhealthy power dynamics, gender inequality, violence, and emotional suppression, harming both individuals and communities.
Final Word from Gentsways
The toxic masculinity test serves as a valuable tool for you as a man to introspectively assess your adherence to societal norms of masculinity and identify areas for growth.
By approaching the test with honesty and openness, you can gain insights into your behaviours and attitudes, paving the way for personal development and the promotion of healthier forms of masculinity.
Embracing self-awareness and a commitment to positive change are pivotal steps towards promoting more inclusive and equitable societies.
References:
- https://www.carepatron.com/files/toxic-masculinity-test.pdf
- https://sacsconsult.com.au/blog/testing-for-toxic-masculinity/
- https://www.tiktok.com/channel/toxic-masculinity-test?lang=en
Pyo Merez is a men’s lifestyle enthusiast and writer about the gentleman’s place and impact on society. Raised by a distinguished gentleman dad, he offers unique insights into how the mind of a gentleman works and how societal norms shape gentlemen’s identity and vice versa.
Through his insightful articles, Pyo taps into the depths of gentleman culture to provide perspectives on etiquette and manners in modern society.