Reconciling Jekyll and Hyde: The Future of Masculinity Research Within the Domestic Violent Extremism Context

Violence among young men in the United States has escalated in recent years, leading to two contrasting perspectives of young men—either as (a) agentic aggressors or (b) by-products of societal shifts that have caused disadvantage. The first perspective characterizes men as entitled and reactionary, prone to aggression when their societal expectations are unmet. This view aligns with the frustration–aggression hypothesis where unmet desires lead to hostile behaviors, particularly among individuals who perceive a loss of status and significance. Conversely, the second perspective views men as victims of rapid societal changes, such as job displacement, educational disparities, and shifting gender roles. This lens seesmen as isolated and struggling to adapt to a new social landscape, leading to feelings of alienation and increased susceptibility to extremist ideologies. Social disconnectionmodels, particularly those focused on ostracism, provide a framework for understanding these dynamics, highlighting the emotional and psychological toll of isolation. This article attempts to reconcile these contrasting views, providing an integrated perspective that can help clarify the phenomenon more fully and guide ongoing attempts to alleviate it.