Gendered Shadows: Media Representations of Masculinity, Trauma, and the Male Psyche behind Violence in Contemporary Television

Abstract:

Introduction: Violence that transcends gendered boundaries remains a persistent and complex global issue, often rooted in intersecting psychological, cultural, and historical dynamics. This study explores the relationship between mental health and violent behaviour, particularly focusing on how men’s emotional and psychological vulnerabilities contribute to acts of violence against both women and other men. Methods: Using qualitative textual analysis of six select episodes, the study critically examines select male characters from three widely known television series: How I Met Your Mother, The Alienist, and You. These case studies were chosen for their portrayal of male protagonists with evident emotional difficulties and maladaptive behaviours as represented in the narrative. The analysis was guided by Social Learning Theory, Attachment Theory, and Gender Role Theory, which together frame how masculinity and violence are constructed and carried on through media. Results: The analysis reveals recurring patterns of emotional repression, unresolved trauma, and narrative depictions of psychological instability in male characters, which manifest as aggression, control, and violence. In particular, How I Met Your Mother uses sarcasm and comedy to conceal emotional repression, The Alienist places aggressiveness inside historical and scientific reasoning, and You depicts idealized violence and compulsive control. These behaviours are often normalized within the narrative frameworks, thereby reinforcing socio-cultural norms that legitimize violence irrespective of gendered victimhood. Discussion: The findings suggest that men’s violent behaviour is frequently symptomatic of unaddressed mental health issues. The paper argues for a multidimensional approach in preventing violence beyond gender by fostering emotional intelligence, mental health awareness, and psychological literacy among men. Conclusion: Addressing violence that transcends gender requires more than punitive responses, it demands cultivating men’s emotional competence, mental health literacy, and psychological resilience. These elements are essential for promoting healthier relationships and dismantling cultural norms that uphold gender-neutral violence.

Keywords:

Masculinity, Violence, Mental health, Emotional instability, Emotional quotient.

Citation: Anlin Sharon A and Felicita Mary Praba I (2025). Gendered Shadows: Media Representations of Masculinity, Trauma, and the Male Psyche Behind Violence in Contemporary Television. Horizon J. Hum. Soc. Sci. Res. 7 (2), 216–226. https://doi.org/10.37534/bp.jhssr.2025.v7.n2.id1288.p216