Graduate Program
College Student Affairs
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Semester of Degree Completion
2010
Thesis Director
Richard Roberts
Thesis Committee Member
Charles Eberly
Thesis Committee Member
Lou Hencken
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to explore the meaning that college male student leaders make of their gender development. Grounded theory methodology was used to gather information through in-depth interviews. Data were analyzed to form a working model of the data found. Participants were males in elected leadership positions. The study took place at a comprehensive mid-size Midwestern Public University.
Findings indicated participants felt an increased sense of responsibility from being in a leadership positions. They believed that respect, responsibility, and accountability were key factors in leadership. The participants constructed an ideal male that included breadwinning for a household, holding a high powered job, and demonstrating confidence. Participants explained the social pressures they experienced to conform to hegemonic standards. Pressures included peers, family, and organizations. The men explained their coping mechanisms for dealing with the notion that they do not fit the notion of an ideal male. Coping mechanisms included reframing themselves as separate from hegemonic standards and rejecting certain hegemonic standards altogether. Results also showed that the social construct of hegemonic masculinity was changing.
Recommendations for future research and implications for practice are included in the discussion of the study.
Recommended Citation
Straub, Kolin R., "Gender Identity Development In Male Student Leaders At A Midwestern University" (2010). Masters Theses. 188.
https://thekeep.eiu.edu/theses/188
