Story perspectives

Study Links Precarious Manhood Beliefs to Lower Happiness

3/31/2026

Summary

Story summary

Boston College researchers analyzed data from 59 countries and found higher precarious manhood beliefs (PMB) reduce happiness and economic output.
Lebanon, Iran, and Nigeria have highest PMB and lowest happiness.
Denmark and Finland show low PMB and high happiness.
Rigid gender norms linked to PMB contribute to stress and health disparities.
Louis Theroux (journalist) released Inside the Manosphere, sparking discussions on the online promotion of extreme masculinity and anti-feminist ideologies.

1 of 1

Story summary

Boston College researchers analyzed data from 59 countries and found higher precarious manhood beliefs (PMB) reduce happiness and economic output.
Lebanon, Iran, and Nigeria have highest PMB and lowest happiness.
Denmark and Finland show low PMB and high happiness.
Rigid gender norms linked to PMB contribute to stress and health disparities.
Louis Theroux (journalist) released Inside the Manosphere, sparking discussions on the online promotion of extreme masculinity and anti-feminist ideologies.