Appendix W: The Wallis Social Research Podcast: Opening up the Man Box (With Matt Tyler from Jesuit Social Services)
In the fifth episode of Appendix W, the Wallis Social Research podcast, host Anthony Frosh speaks with Matt Tyler, Executive Director of The Men’s Project at Jesuit Social Services, about the influential Man Box study and the broader conversations around masculinity in Australia.
The term “The Man Box” refers to a rigid set of social norms that pressure men to behave in traditionally masculine ways – to be tough, in control, and emotionally restricted. These expectations not only impact men’s mental health and relationships but also shape how boys and men interact with the world around them.
Anthony and Matt explore the origins and evolution of the Man Box concept, and how it relates to both harmful and positive expressions of masculinity. Drawing on the latest Man Box 2024 research, the conversation covers:
The development of the Man Box framework
The link between the Man Box and toxic masculinity, as well as the importance of recognising positive forms of masculinity
How the Man Box mentality affects men’s mental health and personal relationships
Insights into cultural and socio-economic similarities across the research
Shifts in social norms between the 2018 and 2024 reports — including a growing gap between public perceptions of masculinity and individuals’ personal beliefs
The value of introducing education around masculinity from a young age
Why the goal is not to erase masculinity, but to reshape it in healthier, more respectful ways
“It’s not about being anti-masculinity,” says Matt. “It’s about broadening what it means to be a man and challenging harmful stereotypes.”
As public discussions about gender, identity and wellbeing continue to grow, this episode provides timely and thoughtful insight into the pressures many men face — and how these can be challenged for the better.
Matt Tyler brings a wealth of experience to the discussion, having led The Men’s Project for the past six years. His background in turning research into practical outcomes, including roles with Harvard’s Government Performance Lab, adds depth to the conversation.
Explore the Man Box 2024 research:
https://jss.org.au/programs/research/the-man-box/
Discover The Men’s Project:
https://jss.org.au/programs/the-mens-project/
Podcast edited by Shalini Sen
Marketing by Sarah Guy