Hegemoni Maskulinitas pada Mahasiswa di Kota Medan: Studi Fenomenologi pada Mahasiswa Soft Masculine

Abstract

Cultural changes have influenced people's perspective in interpreting the concept of masculinity in society. Through belief systems, behavior, social norms and values, the concept of masculinity can have different meanings in each group of society. The dominance of macho culture has long occurred in patriarchal societies. The concept of macho men is still the most dominant form in defining male gender appearance in Medan city society, which causes a lack of public sensitivity in understanding the concepts of gender and masculinity. This research aims to analyze the development of defining the concept of masculinity among students in the city of Medan, from the macho concept towards the concept of soft masculinity. By using phenomenological methods and a qualitative approach, this research seeks to find out the experiences of soft masculine students in presenting their existence in Medan city society. The data collection technique used in this research was structured interviews with nine informants. The results of this research show that students can accept the idea of soft masculinity conceptually as a development of gender terms in society, although there is still visible criticism that rejects the practice of using skincare and accessories that appear feminine by men in general and openly. It is hoped that the substance of this research can provide a new source of understanding in interpreting the concept of masculinity, especially in defining the concept of soft masculine men so that they can be accepted by society.