What is Positive Masculinity?

+M encourages boys to embrace a broad and authentic view of what it means to be male.

It challenges limiting stereotypes and supports the development of character, empathy, resilience and meaningful relationships, helping boys thrive in their lives and communities.

Positive Masculinity at BGS

The Positive Masculinity (+M) program aims to empower young men and inspire them to be connected, authentic and motivated.

It encourages students to explore traditional masculinity stereotypes and develop a better understanding of what it means to be a man.

The program helps them challenge assumptions around gender roles and think critically about their beliefs, values and behaviours.

By providing a safe space for discussion and learning, students can make positive changes in their lives and develop the important skills of communication, conflict resolution and collaboration.

The three pillars of the Positive Masculinity (+M) Model

Authentic

Understanding yourself
Motivated

Having purpose
Connected

Maintaining relationships

Authentic

Know myself and be comfortable in my own skin
Be open to expressing my identity, attitudes and emotions
Use help-seeking behaviours and provide support to others
Contribute meaningfully to community (school and other)

Motivated

Drive to continually grow as a person
Feel a sense of purpose
Contribute positively to society/community
Act in line with my personal values, rather than how I think peers want me to behave

Connected

Build social relationships; engage with array of individuals
Be respectful, tolerant, empathetic
Demonstrate kindness and compassion in relationships with people, systems, groups and myself
Have a sense of belonging to group/s that are positive for me

Developing Positive Masculinity

The word is spreading on our work in Positive Masculinity, with US magazine Psychology Today writing a piece referencing the paper (Operationalizing Positive Masculinity) in which BGS had contributions from Ross Featherston, Ray Swann and Kate Casey. 26 April 26 2023

Psychology Today website