'Crabs in a Bucket': Reforming Male Identities in Trinidad
After briefly reviewing changes in the notion of masculinity underway in Western societies, the situation in a semiindustrialized, developing society -- Trinidad -- is assessed, drawing on fieldwork data collected in a rural Hindu village. It is shown that, similar to Western societies, there is a growing discomfort in Trinidad with sexual stereotypes & proscribed relations between men & women. Social & economic changes at the societal level have initiated challenges to traditional gender roles & identities. Key dimensions of male identity that are undergoing transformation are described, focusing on notions of respectability & reputation that have long governed male behavior & attitudes. Both in urban & rural areas, women are playing an increased role in social affairs & development projects, & a more inclusive relationship between the sexes in rejection of patriarchal norms is anticipated. 23 References. K. Hyatt Stewart
