MASCULINITY AND COPING AMONG SINGAPOREAN MALE YOUTHS IN THE SOCIAL MEDIA AGE

Abstract

Set in the landscape of the social media era, this exploratory study examines Singaporean male youths’ perspectives towards masculinity, their coping experiences in negative situations, their experiences with social media as a coping tool, as well as their perspectives of social media on their individual masculinity. Through 24 in-depth qualitative interviews with youths ranging from 18 to 35 years old, this study revealed the subjective nature of masculinity, prevalence of both problem-focused and emotion-focused coping among youths, the subjective influences of social media on masculinity construction and perception, as well as social media as a double-edged sword in coping management. Findings from the study provide a foundational understanding towards masculinity and coping in a social media era. In light of the increasing trend of mental health issues among Singaporean male youths and men, this study offers useful insights for future research and interventions which address issues pertaining to males’ masculinity and their mental health management.