Masculine Gender Role Stress and Intimate Partner Violence Perpetration: A Scoping Review

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is widespread public health and human rights concern, characterized by any behaviour within an intimate relationship that leads to physical, sexual, psychological or economic harm of a partner (World Health Organization, 2012). Women are disproportionately impacted by IPV, making up ~80% of all IPV survivors (Government of Canada, 2024; World Health Organization, 2021). While violence is perpetrated in same-sex and gender non-conforming dyads, the majority of severe IPV experienced by women is perpetrated by male-identifying partners and ex-partners (Ansara & Hindin, 2010; World Health Organization, 2012). Understanding the diverse contributors to IPV perpetration among men is key in the development and administration of preventative and therapeutic interventions (Dixon & Graham-Kevan, 2011; Felson & Lane, 2010). Masculine gender role stress (MGRS) refers to the intrapsychic distress that results from men’s appraisal of situations as threatening to internalized gender norms, or as challenging to their ability to fulfill masculine gender roles and expectations (Copenhaver et al., 2000; Franchina et al., 2001; Jakupcak et al., 2002). Masculine discrepancy stress (MDS) is a manifestation of MGRS that results from a disconnect between internalized masculine ideals and a man’s perception of their own masculine identity (Reidy et al., 2014). Masculine contingency (MC) is another relevant concept to MGRS, as it refers to the extent to which a man’s self-worth is contingent on their masculine identity (Burkley et al., 2016). MGRS and related constructs have been linked to an increased risk for IPV perpetration among men across a diverse range of studies exploring varied mechanisms and contributors (Franchina et al., 2001; Jakupcak et al., 2002; Sileo, 2022). However, relevant literature is scattered, varying widely in the definition of constructs, use of measures, and methodology. The present scoping review will systematically map existing evidence surrounding the associations between distress resulting from internalized masculine gender norms and IPV perpetration among men. Through the synthesis of available literature, the review will aim to elucidate conceptualizations of MGRS and related concepts in the context of IPV perpetration and identify gaps in knowledge that may guide future research and intervention or prevention efforts.