Cognitive Constructions of Masculinity: Unheard Voices, Sociocultural Contexts, and Psycho-clinical Implications within the Framework of Italian and European Law

Abstract

This article addresses the clinical consequences of violence experienced by men, an underestimated and under-debated phenomenon deeply intertwined with the social construction of masculinity. We critically analyze how traditional gender stereotypes shape the social perception and management of male victimization. The work discusses the main psychological and sociological theories that explain the formation of these stereotypes. We provide a secondary analysis of Macrì et al. (2012), who surveyed a volunteer, non-probability sample of 1,058 Italian men aged 18–70 using an instrument adapted from ISTAT (2006) to assess lifetime experiences of physical, sexual, psychological/economic, and persecutory behaviors experienced by men, revealing the pervasiveness of the phenomenon and its severe psychological consequences for victims. The objective is to overcome the unidirectional view of gender-based violence, stimulating a more comprehensive and inclusive understanding that can inform targeted support interventions and promote a more equitable society for all victims.