Defeminization

Defeminization refers to the process by which an individual or group becomes less associated with traditionally feminine traits, behaviors, or roles. This can involve physical changes, alterations in dress and appearance, or shifts in psychological characteristics and social interactions. It's often examined within the contexts of gender identity, cultural norms, and the impact of societal expectations. This phenomenon is frequently studied in relation to sports, military, and political environments, where traditional masculinity often holds a place of privilege and power.

Defeminization meaning with examples

• The athlete's rigorous training regimen, combined with a focus on strength and aggression, was viewed by some as contributing to a form of defeminization. This created tensions within traditional gendered expectations of appearance and behaviour, though it gave her an edge when competing.
• In response to military training, the recruits often experienced a form of defeminization, with their hair cut short and their uniforms and training designed to prioritize endurance and stoicism, irrespective of their gender.
• Political analysis of the campaign suggested a strategy of defeminization, where female candidates are portrayed as unassertive or lacking in leadership qualities, based on traditional feminine traits in their opponents.
• Some social commentators argued that societal pressures and rigid cultural expectations around gender roles and expression may lead to the defeminization of some transgender individuals, particularly in transitioning settings.
• The historical evolution of beauty standards and the changing societal context demonstrate many ways women are presented in public, illustrating the defeminization of the roles that women historically fulfilled, over time and with many variations.