Exploring the uptake of inclusive masculinity ideas in a group of South African, White, Afrikaans, heterosexual University student men

This study explored the masculinity constructions of White, Afrikaans, cisgender, heterosexual, tertiary-educated, young men – a socio-cultural group strongly associated with hegemonic masculinity ideas. More specifically, informed by Anderson's Inclusive Masculinity Theory, the study investigated whether these young men incorporated more inclusive masculinity ideas. Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with 15 men between the ages of 21 and 24 years who were enrolled at one South African residential university. Reflexive thematic analysis produced four themes: More covert acceptance of homosexuality; Selective emotional and physical intimacy; Help-seeking behaviours when needed or serious; and Supporting progressive gender ideas but holding onto traditional gender roles. Overall, these themes indicate some progress in terms of the adoption of more inclusive masculinity ideas, specifically a reduction in overt homophobia that is seen in IMT as crucial in fostering inclusive masculinities in IMT. However, we highlight that the study participants, overall, maintained overt or covert orthodox masculinity ideas that continue to exert exclusionary effects.