Homohysteria

Abstract

This article uses a feminist lens to critique and repurpose the concept of homohysteria. Eric Anderson (2005) created the term homohysteria to explain seismic changes in social behavior of men, particularly noting how a society’s relationship with homosexuality will explain sanctions enacted on men’s behavior. I argue that while Anderson and his adherents developed a novel concept to discuss shifts in male behavior, the all-encompassing nature of a macro-concept, applies too broad a stroke in terms of explaining modifications in relations with manhood. Instead of dismissing the theory, I assert Anderson’s original scope was limited, and that homohysteria is best understood at a meso-level of implementation and change. Further, I argue the concept of effeminophobia must be central to homohysteria, given the fear of the effeminate in a masculine form (Allan 2018). This research is pivotal in demonstrating wider use for Anderson’s concept by expanding its relevance.