Hegemonic masculinity is a concept developed by the Australian sociologist R. W. Connell to explain the culturally dominant form of masculinity that legitimizes men's power and authority over women and other men. It does not refer to the most common form of masculinity but rather to the socially idealized model that enjoys the highest status and prestige within a particular society. This dominant model shapes social institutions, cultural norms, and gender relations by presenting certain masculine traits as superior and desirable. The concept emerged as part of feminist and gender studies to understand how gender inequality is maintained not only through laws and institutions but also through cultural beliefs and everyday practices. Hegemonic masculinity emphasizes characteristics such as physical strength, authority, emotional control, competitiveness, heterosexuality, self-reliance, leadership, and dominance. Men who embody or approximate these traits are often rewarded with greater respect, influence, and opportunities. An important feature of hegemonic masculinity is that it establishes a hierarchy among men themselves. While some men closely fit the