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ZERO SUM: The Silent Struggle of Men

ZERO SUM: The Silent Struggle of Men



A rising number of men, particularly younger ones, feel alienated by modern progressive movements. Many of these men perceive the progressive push for identity politics, MeToo and DEI initiatives as indifferent or even hostile to their concerns. The decline of traditional male-dominated industries, rising rates of male loneliness, educational underachievement among boys, the mental health crisis among men and absence of masculine male role models in modern media have been under-discussed in the mainstream political discourse. Even when these topics do arise, they are often framed in a way that portrays men as part of the problem rather than as individuals facing their own unique struggles.


This Article will highlight the unspoken and overlooked struggles that men face today and examine how these struggles have lead to increased support for populist figures like Donald Trump.


The Changing Landscape of Work


Traditionally, industries like manufacturing and mining have been male-dominated. These sectors, however, have steadily declined due to globalization and advancements in technology, leaving many men feeling uncertain about their futures. For example, Between 2000 and 2010, the United States experienced a significant decline in manufacturing employment, with approximately 5.7 million jobs lost during that period. (eig.org) This shift has eliminated a sense of belonging for many men.



The transition towards service-focused and tech-oriented jobs requires skills that some men may lack or feel unmotivated to acquire. According to a 2021 survey, about 34% of workers reported that they do not feel equipped to meet the demands of today's job market. As a result, many men, particularly those without advanced education or training, feel abandoned. This sense of exclusion can lead to increased feelings of alienation and despair.



The Loneliness Epidemic


The decline of traditional community structures has left many men struggling with loneliness. Recent studies indicate that a significant number of men experience loneliness. A December 2021 survey found that 57% of men reported feeling lonely.


 Additionally, research from 2021 revealed that 15% of men claimed to have no close friends, a substantial increase from previous years.


 These findings highlight the growing concern regarding social isolation among men.. Several factors contribute to this phenomenon:


Studies indicate that nearly 70% of men report feeling lonely
Studies indicate that nearly 70% of men report feeling lonely


  • Decline of male friendships: While women often maintain close friendships, many men struggle to form strong social bonds. Research from the University of Oxford shows that men are 50% less likely to share personal feelings with friends, which can exacerbate their isolation.


  • Cultural stigma: Many men believe that expressing emotions or seeking help is a sign of weakness. An American Psychological Association report stated that 60% of men believe this stigma has hindered their mental health.


  • Shifts in societal roles: As traditional gender norms evolve, many men are left conflicted about their identities. A survey revealed that 56% of men feel confused about societal expectations concerning masculinity today.




Educational Disparities


Educational achievements also reflect troubling trends for younger men. Boys are consistently falling behind in school and higher education. For instance, recent data from the U.S. Department of Education highlighted that boys are nearly 1.5 times more likely to be identified as having learning disabilities compared to girls.

High angle view of students in a classroom, illustrating the gender gap in education
An empty classroom representing the educational disparities faced by boys.

Factors contributing to this educational gap include:


  • Attention and engagement issues: Studies show that boys tend to be less engaged in classroom discussions, leading to a significant drop in academic performance. Boys are also 30% more likely to drop out of high school than girls.


  • Economic pressures: Many boys, especially in low-income households, choose to prioritize immediate job opportunities over educational pursuits. A study by the National Center for Education Statistics found that 16% of first-generation males cited financial contributions to their family as a reason for not completing their degrees.


  • Societal narratives: The focus on female achievements in education often overshadows the struggles boys face, perpetuating a cycle of underachievement.




The Mental Health Crisis


The mental health challenges men face are often overlooked. Statistics reveal that men are three times more likely to die by suicide than women. Yet, they are far less likely to seek help for mental health issues, often due to cultural conditioning.


Some key factors include:


  • Cultural conditioning: From an early age, boys are taught to be tough and to hide their emotions. This conditioning creates barriers to seeking help for mental health struggles.


  • Limited resources: Programs specifically targeting mental health issues facing men are scarce. Recent reports reveal that 70% of mental health resources are directed towards women, leaving many men without appropriate support.


  • Stigmatization: The fear of being judged stops many men from seeking help. A report from the Mental Health Foundation indicated that 75% of men believe they will be ridiculed or judged for discussing emotional struggles.



Political Alienation


The amalgamation of these issues has fostered a sense of political alienation among men. Many feel their voices go unheard in the larger narrative about social problems. When they voice their concerns, they are often met with responses that frame their challenges within the context of systemic oppression, further distancing them from progressive groups.


Data from the 2024 election suggests that the Democratic Party has a growing problem with young male voters. While Democrats traditionally perform well with young people overall, young men have been shifting toward the Republican Party, and Trump capitalized on this trend.


So, what are Progressives doing to turn off young men?


  1. Overemphasis on Identity Politics

    Many young men feel alienated by the Democratic Party’s focus on identity politics, particularly rhetoric that frames masculinity in negative terms. Progressive discourse often highlights issues of "toxic masculinity" and "male privilege," which some men interpret as dismissive of their struggles.


  2. Neglecting Male-Specific Issues

    There’s been significant advocacy for women's issues (such as reproductive rights and equal pay), but problems disproportionately affecting men—like declining college enrollment, workplace deaths, suicide rates, and the opioid crisis—get far less attention. Many men see Democrats championing feminist causes while ignoring the fact that young men are struggling in school, work, and mental health.


  3. Economic Pressures on Young Men

    Working-class young men, especially those without college degrees, often feel that the Democratic Party prioritizes the interests of urban professionals and marginalized identity groups over their economic concerns. Trump, despite his billionaire status, speaks in a way that resonates with these men—focusing on trade, manufacturing, and job security rather than diversity initiatives and climate policies that some see as job-killers.


  4. Cultural Alienation and the Rise of “Barstool Conservatism”

    A growing number of young men identify with what has been called "Barstool conservatism"—a mix of social libertarianism (opposition to cancel culture and political correctness) and economic populism. Figures like Dave Portnoy (Barstool Sports) and Joe Rogan have built massive male audiences by embracing this ethos, and Trump has successfully tapped into it. Meanwhile, Democrats are often associated with the side of cancel culture that cracks down on politically incorrect speech, which many young men view as a threat to their freedom and humor.


  5. The #MeToo Backlash and Changing Gender Dynamics

    The #MeToo movement was crucial in exposing sexual misconduct, but it also created a climate where some young men feel they are under constant scrutiny or risk being falsely accused. Some believe Democrats pushed the movement too far, leaving men feeling like they are walking on eggshells in social and professional settings. Trump, in contrast, dismissed these concerns outright, appealing to men who feel exhausted by progressive social rules.


  6. The Resonance of Donald Trump's Rhetoric

    In the lead-up to the 2024 election, many young men were drawn to Trump’s rhetoric, which often emphasizes strength, independence, and resilience. This messaging resonates deeply with those who feel marginalized.

    Photo by Polina Zimmerman
    Photo by Polina Zimmerman
    Observable shifts include:

    Validation of emotions: Trump’s comments often recognize the frustrations and losses that many men experience, fostering a sense of connection among those who feel misunderstood.


    Anti-establishment sentiment: His status as an outsider appeals to young men disillusioned by traditional political narratives, creating an alternative that feels accessible.


    Empowerment: Trump’s framing of challenges as obstacles to overcome helps men view their struggles as surmountable.


    The Democratic Party has historically been the party of young voters, but if they continue to alienate young men, the gender gap in voting could widen even further.


The Need for Balanced Discussions


Just as society has made strides in advocating for women's rights and opportunities, it is equally important to address the challenges that men face—whether in education, mental health, employment, or social expectations.


Recognizing these struggles isn't a zero-sum game -- Addressing men's issues does not have to happen at the expense of women's progress; rather, it is about ensuring a more balanced and inclusive conversation that benefits everyone.


Some actions we can take:


  1. Education and Career Development

    Address the Male Education Gap: Boys are falling behind in school, with lower college enrollment and higher dropout rates than girls. Policies to engage boys in education early—such as mentorship programs, male role models in teaching, and trade/technical education—could help.

    Promote Vocational Training & Apprenticeships: Not all young men thrive in traditional college settings. Expanding trade schools, apprenticeships, and certification programs can provide better career paths for those who prefer hands-on work.

    Scholarships for Underrepresented Male Groups: Similar to initiatives for women in STEM, offering targeted scholarships for men in underrepresented fields (such as education and healthcare) can help close workforce gaps.


  2. Mental Health and Social Support

    Expand Mental Health Services for Men: Men are less likely to seek therapy due to stigma and lack of male-friendly resources. More outreach, peer support programs, and male-focused mental health campaigns can encourage men to seek help.

    Tackle the Male Suicide Crisis: Suicide rates among men are alarmingly high, particularly among middle-aged and working-class men. Public awareness campaigns, crisis helplines, and workplace mental health initiatives should prioritize reaching at-risk men.

    Combat Social Isolation: Many men struggle with loneliness, especially after major life changes (divorce, job loss, aging). Community-based programs, social clubs, and mentorship networks can help men build stronger social ties.


  3. Workplace and Economic Policies

    Support Fathers in the Workplace: Expanding paternity leave and encouraging work-life balance for fathers can help redefine fatherhood and promote healthier family dynamics.

    Address Declining Male Workforce Participation: Many men, especially in blue-collar industries, have struggled with job displacement due to automation and globalization. Job retraining programs, entrepreneurship support, and economic policies that create stable employment opportunities can help.

    Reform Family Court & Child Custody Laws: Many fathers feel the legal system is biased against them in custody battles. Ensuring fair parental rights and shared custody laws can improve father-child relationships and reduce family conflict.


  4. Cultural and Social Narratives

    Move Beyond “Toxic Masculinity” to Positive Masculinity: While it’s important to address harmful behaviors, the conversation about masculinity should also highlight positive traits like responsibility, resilience, and leadership rather than simply criticizing men.

    Encourage Male Role Models & Mentors: Programs that connect young men with mentors in their communities, workplaces, and schools can provide guidance and stability.

    Promote Healthy Relationships & Respectful Gender Conversations: Encouraging balanced discussions on gender issues—where men’s challenges are acknowledged alongside women’s—can help bridge divides and foster mutual understanding.


Why This Matters

Addressing men’s issues isn’t about taking resources away from women’s advocacy but about ensuring that both genders receive the support they need. Just as feminist movements have successfully pushed for policy changes that benefit women, society can also create targeted initiatives that address the specific struggles of men—leading to a healthier, more balanced society for all.

Eye-level view of a park bench overlooking a serene lake, denoting reflections on mental health
Photo by RDNE Stock project

Sources:







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