Dominance and Emotional Restraint: Quantifying Masculinity Norms in Pakistani Workplaces

Abstract

Traditional masculinity norms are generally understood to influence men's work ethos and are typically defined by men's emotional control, their dominance, competitiveness and self-reliance; however, there is limited quantitative evidence from non-Western settings. This study investigates the relationship between masculinity norms and workplace behaviors of men employed in Lahore, Pakistan. The survey design was quantitative and cross-sectional, which included 196 working men who completed validated Masculinity Role Norms Scale (MRNS) and a self-developed Workplace Masculinity Behavior Questionnaire (WMBQ). The findings showed a significant moderate positive correlation between endorsement of traditional social norms of masculinity and masculine workplace behaviors (r = .496, p < .001). The results from regression analyses confirmed the importance of the role played by masculinity norms in the workplace behavior, accounting for around 25% of the variance, and this remained the case after accounting for age and years of experience. Ultimately, the results of this study provide empirical evidence from an organizational context in Pakistan, highlighting the global spread of the norms of masculinity and the cultural specificities of their existence. This study emphasizes the need for institutional and policy shifts to break gendered norms and promote inclusive and equitable workplaces.