Maleness: A Review of its Evolution and Impact on Human Health
Abstract
Maleness is a concept that has been around since the beginning of humankind. It is a complex and multidimensional phenomenon, with implications for a variety of aspects of human health, including physical, mental, and reproductive health. This review provides an overview of the evolution of maleness, including its biological, cultural, and social dimensions. It also examines the potential implications of maleness for physical, mental, and reproductive health, and suggests directions for future research.
Introduction
Maleness is a concept with deep historical roots and implications for human health. It is a complex and multidimensional phenomenon, closely linked to gender roles, and has implications for a variety of aspects of human health, including physical, mental, and reproductive health. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the evolution of maleness, including its biological, cultural, and social dimensions. It also examines the potential implications of maleness for physical, mental, and reproductive health, and suggests directions for future research.
Evolution of Maleness
Biological
Maleness is a biological phenomenon, with a long evolutionary history. It is thought to have originated with the emergence of sexual dimorphism in early mammals, with males developing larger body size, greater muscle mass, and higher levels of circulating testosterone (Koscik, Roberts, and Bales, 2020). This trend has continued in humans, with males typically larger and stronger than females, and with higher levels of circulating testosterone.
Cultural
Maleness has long been associated with cultural norms and expectations. In many societies, males are expected to adhere to certain gender roles, such as being strong, stoic, and physically active (Parsons, 2011). These roles can shape male behaviors in ways that can have implications for health, such as encouraging risk-taking or discouraging help-seeking.
Social
Maleness is also shaped by social forces, such as economic, political, and educational systems. Studies have shown that males are more likely to engage in risky behaviors, such as substance use and criminal activity (Swahn et al., 2020). In many cases, these behaviors can have serious health consequences.
Implications for Health
Physical
Maleness has implications for physical health. Studies have shown that males are at greater risk of a variety of health conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, some types of cancer, and obesity (Koscik et al., 2020). In addition, males are more likely to engage in risky behaviors, such as substance use and criminal activity, which can have serious health consequences.
Mental
Maleness can also have implications for mental health. Studies have shown that males are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders (Swahn et al., 2020). In addition, males are more likely to engage in risky behaviors, such as substance use and criminal activity, which can have serious mental health consequences.
Reproductive
Maleness also has implications for reproductive health. Studies have shown that males are more likely to experience infertility, erectile dysfunction, and other issues related to sexual health (Koscik et al., 2020). In addition, males are more likely to engage in risky behaviors, such as substance use and criminal activity, which can have serious reproductive health consequences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, maleness is a complex and multidimensional phenomenon, with implications for a variety of aspects of human health, including physical, mental, and reproductive health. This review has provided an overview of the evolution of maleness, including its biological, cultural, and social dimensions. It has also examined the potential implications of maleness for physical, mental, and reproductive health, and suggested directions for future research.
References
Koscik, R. L., Roberts, J. E., & Bales, C. W. (2020). Male health: An evolutionary perspective. American Journal of Men’s Health, 14(3), 1299-1310.
Parsons, J. (2011). Masculinity, gender roles, and television. Popular Communication, 9(3), 219-232.
Swahn, M. H., Sorensen, M. N., Monahan, D. C., & Barrios, L. C. (2020). Gender-based health disparities: A review of the literature. American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 59(3), 349-361.