Navigating Mobile Masculinities: Young Men in Melbourne and Berlin

This thesis investigates expressions of contemporary masculinities amongst young men in Melbourne, Australia and Berlin, Germany. It draws on qualitative narrative interviews to explore shifts and changes of masculinities as well as continuing challenges. The research is informed by feminist theory and methodologies and critical studies on men and masculinities. The main findings include movements amongst participants towards more open expressions of masculinity alongside the continuing influence of older, more closed versions. Particularly notable was the discovery of iterations of radical, open expressions of gender amongst some young, marginalised men. This thesis raises the importance of fostering open alternatives for masculinities.