Effects of masculinity across the world: from personal dynamics to political realms

Through a country-representative survey conducted in 64 countries by the World Values Survey (WVS) Wave 7, this study explores the impact of “nonmasculine” values in three domains: acceptance of abusive behavior, support for political violence, and misuse of public property. Employing multilevel model regression analyses, the research unveils that higher levels of “nonmasculine” values are associated with reduced acceptance of these factors. The study incorporates additional variables, revealing that right-wing political orientations are associated with increased support. Interestingly, nonreligious individuals also endorse these behaviors, challenging assumptions about the pacifying role of secularism. Dissatisfaction with life emerges as a pivotal factor, connecting individual well-being to societal attitudes. The demographic variables highlight gender, age, income, and education as influential factors, with education emerging as particularly important in shaping societal attitudes. These findings contribute to academic discourse and provide valuable insights for practical policymaking, facilitating efforts to foster more inclusive, tolerant, and nonviolent societies.