Unraveling the Myth of Masculinity

A panel of experts and community members will discuss male culture—including the phrase “Be a man” and the ways in which manhood is portrayed in media—and the potential for creating a broader definition of manhood. Without guidance and support, many youth learn to define manhood through media images and messages that portray masculinity stereotypically. Some of those stereotypes can be harmful and can encourage violence and the objectification of girls and women.

The panelists will include Betty Woodman, Ph.D., visiting faculty, University of Maine, and president, Contemporary Leadership Institute; Jon Heath, director of education programs, Family Violence Project; Kelly Doyle, mental health and human services major, University of Maine at Augusta; Mark Tappan, professor and chair, Education Program, Colby College; and Tim LeCrone, chief operating officer, Boys & Girls Clubs and YMCA of Greater Waterville at the Alfond Youth Center. The moderator will be Sean Landry, an educator for the Sexual Assault Crisis & Support Center serving Kennebec and Somerset counties.