Christoffer, 27, Northern Zealand
“Masculinity in Denmark is about being authentic, respectful, and emotionally aware, rather than fitting into a fixed role.”
I don’t feel that Danish boys are heavily influenced by misogynistic internet content in the way boys might be in the UK or the US. In Denmark, we have a generally peaceful culture, which I think plays a big role. I also believe Danish society offers more balanced role models and open conversations about gender roles. It depends on individual circumstances, but the general social environment in Denmark doesn’t seem to foster the same kind of crisis around masculinity.
When travelling abroad, I’ve noticed some differences between Danish men’s behaviour and the behaviour of men in other countries. Traditional gender roles seem more deeply rooted in other countries, and boys and men are expected to act more dominant or emotionally reserved. In Denmark, there’s generally more openness and acceptance when it comes to expressing emotions and breaking away from traditional masculine norms.
I think these differences come down to cultural values, education, and how gender roles are discussed in families, schools etc. It’s quite normal for men to take parental leave, share household responsibilities, and be emotionally present in their families. I think this comes from the values embedded in Danish society. There’s a strong cultural emphasis on equality, emotional openness, and mutual respect, which encourages men to break away from rigid, traditional gender stereotypes. Men are not expected to always be tough or dominant – anymore – they can be caring, vulnerable, and involved in family life without it being seen as weak.
I don’t really remember masculinity being something that was consciously discussed at home. I wasn’t raised to act in a particularly ‘male’ way, and there weren’t strong expectations about boys behaving differently from girls. Looking back, I think my upbringing was quite balanced in that sense, and gender roles weren’t a big focus.
I do think my ideas about masculinity have changed a bit over time. When I was younger, I probably saw and ‘knew’ masculinity in a more traditional way—being strong, not showing too many emotions, and taking responsibility. But as I’ve grown older and society has changed, I’ve come to see masculinity as something much broader. Now I think it’s more about being authentic, respectful, and emotionally aware, rather than fitting into a fixed role.
Thomas, 47, Jutland
“I would go as far as to say that it is ‘in fashion’ to be a respectful young man in Denmark”
In general, I don’t think there are concerns about misogynistic influences in Denmark. This does not mean they don’t exist but my personal belief is that the large degree of gender equality most boys experience at home works against any online influence. Some will still be exposed and more receptive than others. As a proud dad of a 12-year old daughter I can certainly say that I believe I heard more misogynistic comments from kids when I was a teenager that I experience today among children/young adults.
The fact we have positive male role models in Denmark also helps to counteract any misogynistic influences online. We have a king who is considered extremely modern. I would go as far as to say that it is “in fashion” to be a respectful young man. I also think that it is very much accepted for men and boys to show vulnerability in social relations. The old “Boys Don’t Cry” dogma is certainly not very popular or common in Danish society.
I have lived abroad and I have seen definite differences in how men behave in other countries compared to Denmark. In my opinion a lot of the differences arise from the very structures of society. In Switzerland, for example, you have to pay a small fortune to have your young kids in daycare. This leads to a society where women are out of the job market when they have kids. If they return when kids start school, it is often part time as kids will come home for lunch and who will be there to serve them? The women. These societal structures drive a certain expectation from boys and men which may not always be favourable.
In Denmark it is continuously on the political agenda to even out the differences between genders. I see this in all levels and aspects of society. Children here understand from a young age that Mom might well be the breadwinner in the family and that is accepted.
I don’t think Danish men are more sensitive but I would rather say more aware of their emotions and accepting of being vulnerable and showing vulnerability. I do think Denmark models progressive, positive attitudes towards masculinity and that this stems from the societal structures we have.
I don’t remember ever talking much about masculinity or how men should behave when I was growing up, but I do remember my dad giving me “the sex talk” and emphasising that sex wasn’t just about male pleasure but also about women’s. At the time it felt embarrassing but in hindsight that was really telling. It said a lot about attitudes to equality in our house and in Danish society.
