Rethinking gender: socio-economic change and men in some selected communities in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana

Abstract

With increasing changes in the economy as a result of modernization, industrialization, education, economic restructuring and globalization, several socio-economic changes have taken place in the lives of men and women which have led to changing gender dynamics in the work force, work places and households. Using qualitative data from the Greater Accra region, this paper highlights some of the socio-economic changes affecting men’s lives and their implications on gender roles and relations at the household level, from the perspective of men. The study revealed that economic reforms, lack of income earning opportunities and men’s inability to fulfill their social roles and expectations are leading to gender antagonism at the household level as well as anxieties and psychological stress. Moreover, male self identity and self-esteem have been linked to sexuality and sexual manifestations. However, these challenges of men and their associated consequences appear to have escaped the attention of governments, gender activists and donors. It is therefore important to have broad discussions on issues that have been considered as issues of importance to women only when in fact they are also issues of importance for men. There must be avenues and opportunities for men to express their needs and concerns and they must be engaged in discussions in intra-household power dynamics. This could generate insight into the social, cultural and political issues that influence gender inequalities and possibly lead to better strategies of addressing gender inequalities in society