What does the concept of ‘being a man’ look like in 2018?

Researchers at the University of British Columbia in Canada attempted to find out by quizzing 630 men about which characteristics they believe to be most important. The results were telling.

The participants, who were aged between 15 and 29, didn’t rate traditionally ‘masculine’ attributes like strength and independence as highly as openness, empathy, and health.

(Related: Millennial men may be more selfless than older generations)

The most important trait was generosity. Ninety-one per cent said a man should help other people, and around 80 per cent agreed he should give back to his community. A further 88 per cent said it was important to be open to new ideas, experiences, and people, while just under 78 per cent felt a man should be independent.

(Related: Millennials are struggling to cope with the pressures of modern life)

When it comes to health and looks, 86 per cent prioritised health and fitness, and 75 per cent felt that men of today should be physically strong.

However, being intellectual ranked far higher, with 87 per cent naming it as an important character trait. A further 83 per cent felt emotional strength was key.

(Related: Lonely millennial? You're twice as likely to become depressed)

The study, published in Psychology of Men & Masculinity, revealed that health – rather than wealth – was the biggest marker of success.

“Being fit and healthy was a status for them, to prove themselves as men,” Nick Black, managing partner at Intensions Consulting, told the Daily Mail.

(Related: Why you shouldn't label someone 'generation snowflake')

“As gender roles have become more equal, men [were more concerned] about taking care of themselves and being physically attractive.”

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