Masculinity Depicted by Pakistani Media Industry: A Review

Abstract

Aim of the Study: Masculinity, as represented in the media, is a socially created term with significant implications for cultural norms, gender roles and power systems. This review paper investigates how different types of masculinity, notably hegemonic and toxic masculinities, are portrayed in Pakistani media, such as television dramas, films, internet platforms and commercials.

Methodology: This study synthesizes scholarly work published between 2010 and 2024 and following to this year i.e. 2025, drawing a total of 18 research publications selected using well specified inclusion exclusion criteria and presented a review by using PRISMA approach.

Findings: The data demonstrates that main stream media consistently reinforces hegemonic masculinity, which is defined by emotional repression, violence and masculine domination. Furthermore, toxic characteristics like domination, compulsion and emotional detachment are frequently observed in dramas and advertisements. However, the review analysis also highlights new representations of masculinity in different media platforms and modern era movies that challenge old standards by depicting more emotionally expressive, caring and egalitarian masculine personas.

Conclusion: In conclusion, the study emphasizes the media’s significant role in molding popular ideas of masculinity and advocates for more inclusive and progressive depictions. The researcher examines the implications for future research, media literacy, policy interventions as well as limits and setting the framework for more academic study into gender representation in South Asian media.