Manhood 2.0 is a gender-transformative curriculum developed by Promundo and the University of Pittsburgh to engage young men aged 15 to 24 in reflecting on the impacts of harmful gender norms, specifically those surrounding issues such as teen pregnancy prevention, dating violence and sexual assault, and the bullying of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) individuals. The initiative is an adaptation of Program H, an evidencebased program launched by Promundo and partners in 2002. Underpinning this approach is the knowledge that the ways in which boys and young men are socialized hold profound implications for the health, well-being, and security of men and boys, and for women and girls. Research and evaluations increasingly affirm the links between gender-inequitable attitudes and sexual assault,
as well as young men’s use of contraceptives, health-seeking behavior (including HIV testing), and more equitable relationships.

This manual was created for use by facilitators working to implement Manhood 2.0 to engage young men in gender equity, violence prevention, and creating healthier and more equitable relationships. The Manhood 2.0 manual includes a series of sessions to enable young men to reflect and build
collective support for making positive, healthy changes in their lives. Promundo designed this manual in collaboration with the Manhood 2.0 implementing partners, the University of Pittsburgh, and the Latin American Youth Center of Washington, DC.

Manhood 2.0 is designed to engage young men in the United States in questioning and challenging harmful gender norms, ultimately aiming to transform them. Employing a lens of intersectionality, Manhood 2.0 encourages young men to reflect critically on their identities within the particular contexts in which they are formed. Participants meet in a safe environment and work with their peers to build healthier attitudes, behaviors, and relationships. They are encouraged to talk about gender beyond the rigid divisions of “male” and “female” and to consider and value other gender expressions.

It is recommended that the group education activities in this manual are part of an integrated program for young men. Evidence from international settings has shown that group education activities alone cannot promote attitude and behavior changes; when these education sessions are complemented by youth led campaigns, activism, and other community actions, the effects can be greater and longer-lasting. Furthermore, an integrated approach is important to sustaining attitude and behavior changes over time at the community level and beyond. (From the introduction). Record #6068