Masculine and Feminine Orientations

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The masculinity or femininity of a culture refers to the way an entire culture (including both men and women within the culture) values and reflects characteristics that are traditionally associated with one sex or the other. Thus, a masculine culture—sometimes referred to as an achievement culture—places value on assertiveness, achievement, ambition, and competitiveness (Samovar, Porter, & McDaniel, 2009). Men and women in such cultures also usually make clear distinctions between the sexes, such as expecting more aggressiveness in men and more passiveness in women.

Highly feminine cultures—sometimes referred to as nurturing cultures—place value on relationships and quality of life. Rather than assertiveness, such cultures prize affection, friendliness, and social support among people. Scandinavian cultures (such as those of Sweden and Norway), as well as the cultures of Chile and Portugal, tend to rank high in femininity, whereas Mexico, Japan, and Italy tend to have cultures high in masculinity.

When discussing masculine and feminine orientation, remember that individual men and women within each culture vary in their valuing of masculinity and femininity (Tripathy, 2010). For example, Japan ranks as a highly masculine culture, yet in recent years many Japanese men have been embracing a less restrictive view of masculinity. Analysts note that these men may communicate in ways that are gentle, shy, and sensitive (Faiola, 2005).