Masculinity and health: a critical examination of masculine embodiment in physical education

Borduas, Chris (2017) Masculinity and health: a critical examination of masculine embodiment in physical education. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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Abstract

This thesis explores how male students aged 12-14, at a middle school in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada are embodying fatness and masculinity in a province where dominant discourses of health are present and influencing the position the boys hold in the social hierarchy in PE. In this critical ethnographic study, data was collected with 15 male middle school students through semi-structured interviews and class observations over 9 weeks. Data was analysed through a post-structural lens. Three main findings emerged. First, male youth are influenced and acting upon dominant discourses of masculinity and health. Second, alternative approaches by students and teachers are challenging the notion of dominant discourse to enhance student pleasure and engagement. Finally, the participants discuss the advancement of student-driven curriculum for the promotion of positive realities in PE. The results of this study bring attention to the promise of student-led approaches and teacher pedagogy to promote body-safe and inclusive classrooms.

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