This master’s thesis explores the relationship between conformity to traditional masculine gender norms and emotional competence among adult men in Slovenia, where this research field remains underdeveloped. The study included 260 men (M = 33.5 years). Conformity to masculine norms was measured with the Conformity to Masculine Norms Inventory–30 (CMNI-30; Levant et al., 2020), while emotional competence was assessed with the Emotional Skills and Competence Questionnaire (ESCQ; Takšić et al., 2009). Findings showed that higher conformity to traditional masculine norms was, on average, associated with lower scores on emotional competence scales, confirming the hypothesized negative relationship between the constructs. The strongest predictor of lower emotional competence was the emotional control norm, which specifically predicted poorer recognition, understanding, expression, and labeling of emotions. Multiple regression analysis additionally revealed specific negative effects of the playboy norm, while the risk-taking and power over women subscales emerged as weak positive predictors of overall emotional competence. Age and education did not play a significant role in the models. An important finding is that traditional masculine norms, particularly emotional control, remain relatively present even among younger and highly educated men in Slovenia. These results emphasize the need for future research with more representative and heterogeneous samples, as well as for applied programs that strengthen the positive aspects of masculinity.
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