Constructing Pathways to Responsible Manhood

Controlling Images and Meaning Making Through the Use of Counter-narratives

in Boyhood Studies
Author:
Mellie Torres The Graduate Center, City University of New York, USA

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Alejandro E. Carrión Latinx Studies, Northwestern University, USA

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Roberto Martínez New York City Teaching Fellows, Brooklyn College, USA

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DOI:
https://doi.org/10.3167/bhs.2020.130105
Keywords:
counter-narratives; counter-storytelling; critical race theory; Latino males; mixed methods; masculinity; single-sex schools; urban education
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Abstract

Recent studies have focused on challenging deficit narratives and discourses perpetuating the criminalization of Latino men and boys. But even with this emerging literature, mainstream counter-narratives of young Latino boys and their attitudes towards manhood and masculinity stand in stark contrast to the dangerous and animalistic portrayals of Latino boys and men in the media and society. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the authors draw on the notion of counter-storytelling to explore how Latino boys try to reframe masculinity, manhood, and what they label as ‘responsible manhood.’ Counter-storytelling and narratives provide a platform from which to challenge the discourse, narratives, and imaginaries guiding the conceptualization of machismo. In their counter-narratives, Latino boys critiqued how they are raced, gendered, and Othered in derogatory ways.

Contributor Notes

Mellie Torres, PhD, is a Visiting Assistant Professor at the Graduate Center, City University of New York. A STEM educator, program evaluator, and applied researcher, Mellie is passionate about merging theory, practice, and policy to advance racial equity and amplify the voices and talents of historically marginalized communities, schools, and students.

Alejandro E. Carrión, PhD, is an Academic Advisor and Assistant Professor of Teaching and Learning in Latinx Studies at Northwestern University. Alejandro is an educator, scholar, and activist whose research is situated within the intersection of ethnic studies and education.

Roberto Martínez, PhD, is the Program Manager for the New York City Teaching Fellows at Brooklyn College and an Assistant Adjunct Professor in the Department of Puerto Rican and Latino Studies. Roberto is an educator and administrator in teacher education whose research focuses on anti-immigrant violence and interethnic relations.

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Boyhood Studies

An Interdisciplinary Journal

Cover Boyhood Studies
Article Category:
Research Article
Page Count:
28
Keywords:
counter-narratives; counter-storytelling; critical race theory; Latino males; mixed methods; masculinity; single-sex schools; urban education
Print Publication Date:
01 Jun 2020
Online Publication Date:
01 Jun 2020
Copyright:
© The Author(s) 2020

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