Social Construction of Gender in the U.S. Navy

摘要

This thesis explores the social construction of masculinity in the U.S. Navy andits implication for the successful integration of women. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews of 40 Naval Academy graduates were the major source of data. The literature explores the construction of masculinity and how the identity of men is developed through social interaction. Constant comparative analysis of qualitative data yielded 15 major themes. The themes display various ways in which masculinity is reproduced, transmitted, and enforced among the Naval Officers interviewed. The conclusion provides recommended actions to foster the full integration of women in the Navy. Gender bias, Masculinity.