MALE
ROLE MODELS
The good, the bad or the non-existent?
The days when masculinity was viewed as a singular, fixed concept are over.
Today, masculinity exists in many forms – some positive, and some… not so positive. But how are these varied expressions of masculinity shaped? Do role models exist for all of them, or are positive ones in short supply?
The dominant media narrative often implies that men lack role models – and positive examples specifically. They’re virtually non-existent.
This is fuelled by controversial figures, like Andrew Tate, whose polarising ideologies gain widespread media attention. Not only does this amplify negative masculine influencers, it paints the perception that negative role models overshadow the positive.
However, when you look to the data it tells a different story…
Men know how to look beyond the ‘devil on their shoulder’ and where to turn to for positive guidance. There is, however, a notable generational gap.
%
Half of men agree that they have at least one positive male role model in their lives.
%
Compared to only a fifth of men who disagree.
%
Among 16-24 years olds the percentage of men who say they have a positive male role model rises to three-quarters.
%
While only a third of men aged 55-75 say the same.
However, when you look to the data it tells a different story…
Men know how to look beyond the ‘devil on their shoulder’ and where to turn to for positive guidance. There is, however, a notable generational gap.
%
Half of men agree that they have at least one positive male role model in their lives.
%
Compared to only a fifth of men who disagree.
%
Among 16-24 years olds the percentage of men who say they have a positive male role model rises to three-quarters.
%
While only a third of men aged 55-75 say the same.
Richie Jones
Chief Client Officer
Ipsos in the UK & Ireland
richie.jones@ipsos.com
+44 (0)20 3059 5000
As Chief Client Officer, Richie is responsible for bringing the best of Ipsos to our clients, ensuring we deliver excellence, partnering with them to drive their long-term growth and helping them achieve impact through their research.
Find the full data and read the results in depth.
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