Driver 4 – Male peer relations and cultures of masculinity that emphasise aggression, dominance and control

The gendered drivers of violence against women can be hard to swallow. How do they relate to those of us who do not use violence? What do they mean? By tucking in to each driver in snack sized, interactive sessions we can identify ways to be the positive social change we wish to see at home, at work and out in our communities. 

Let’s digest the gendered drivers of violence against women – one bite at a time.  

Driver 4 is Male peer relations and cultures of masculinity that emphasise aggression, dominance and control.   

Let's pull this word salad apart together. What is the culture of masculinity in spaces where you work, live or play?

The evidence tells us that many men feel pressured to act certain ways, particularly when they're with other men in groups. How do cultures of masculinity that emphasise aggression, dominance and control contribute to driving violence against women and gender-based violence in our communities? Using the evidence from Our Watch, Rainbow Health and the Men’s Project as a guide, this workshop will unpack Driver 4. 

Participants will have the opportunity to engage in discussion and critical reflection that will help them:   

• Discuss what male peer relations and cultures of masculinity that emphasise aggression, dominance and control is  

• Identify everyday examples  

• Explore ways to support healthy masculinities