Final answer:
The crisis of masculinity reflects the societal changes that impact working class boys' perceptions of their future, influenced by the shift from manual labor and the evolution of gender roles. Masculinity is seen as a lifelong project with changing societal expectations, and disruptions can lead to a loss of motivation and self-esteem.
Step-by-step explanation:
The crisis referred to in the question highlights a socio-cultural concern, often termed as a crisis of masculinity. This situation arises due to various societal changes, like the decline in manual labor jobs traditionally taken by men, which influences the working class boys' perception of their future opportunities. Researchers, like cultural anthropologist Daniel Jordan Smith, argue that achieving masculinity is a lifelong project. The narrative around masculinity has evolved over time, and its current conceptualization is often interwoven with gainful employment and the ability to provide.
During the nineteenth century, masculinity was synonymous with paternal duty, but as physical labor became less relevant, the conception of masculinity shifted to emphasize opposition to female traits. The growing influence of women in different societal roles, like education, was feared to make young men "soft", lacking masculine role models. Over time, symbols of masculinity have also shifted, for instance, military men and bodybuilders have been admired for their masculine qualities.
Occupational roles and the dominance of men in certain professions continue to perpetuate gender roles and hence affect our perceptions of what it means to be masculine. As a result, young men might feel disenfranchised or demotivated when traditional roles are disrupted, impacting their self-esteem and motivation, leading to a crisis of masculinity.