Nigerian Diasporic Masculinities: Definitions, Perceptions, and Evolutions
摘要
This study explores the lived experiences of Nigerian men navigating masculinity in the USA, focusing on their definitions of masculinity, perceptions of cultural differences relating to masculinity, and the evolution of their masculine identities. Drawing from in-depth interviews with 17 Nigerian men, the findings reveal varied definitions of masculinity. While most participants described masculinity as deeply tied to cultural values and communal expectations, others adopted a more self-centric perspective, defining masculinity through personality and self-growth. Migration to the USA introduced participants to new cultural norms, such as egalitarianism and emotional openness, which often contrasted sharply with their traditional Nigerian upbringing. These differences prompted participants to rethink entrenched beliefs, leading to a reimagining of masculinity that includes flexibility, shared responsibilities, and emotional vulnerability. By highlighting the interplay of migration, culture, and masculine identity, this study sheds light on how transnational experiences shape and evolve masculinities. The findings contribute to the growing discourse on diasporic gendered identities, offering insights for scholars, policymakers, and individuals navigating the complexities of cultural adaptation and self-definition.