The Shaping of Masculine Identity: Some Points for Discussion.

Abstract

Through the presentation of some facts taken from a study made about a lower class urban family and its origins, this article aims to identify the elements which contribute in the shaping of gender identity more specifically the masculine identity. This family was chosen for having, at least temporarily, an inversion in the sexual division of labor : the husband, who was unemployed, was responsible for household chores and caring for the children, while the wife, who was working outside of the home, was responsible for supporting the family unit. The social / historical approach helps us understand the subject in question, through and in its social relations. In an analogical fashion, we use this approach to discuss the constitution of masculinity and femininity