TESTOSTERONE AND IDENTITY – THE EFFECTS OF TESTOSTERONE ON THE MALE PSYCHE
By Joshua G. Crampton, MultiGen Wellness
How Testosterone Affects Male Identity
In today’s world, perhaps more than ever, men grapple with the question of “who they are.” It’s a process of defining their role and the space they will occupy and manage in their corner of the universe.
The concept of “self-actualization,” introduced in basic psychology courses, is something we all encounter and embody as we grow and adapt to the world around us. It’s a lifelong journey of becoming who we are meant to be.
Each morning, a man wakes up and decides how he will show up in life that day. At the heart of this process is the endocrine system, where testosterone is created and maintained, alongside other vital hormones produced by the thyroid, adrenal glands, and gonads.
These hormones work together seamlessly to shape the “male”—the strong, powerful, in-control man who pursues his visions and dreams with courage. It is this kind of man who has historically built societies and created the systems of work, governance, and progress we see today.
Hormones are uniquely designed for both men and women, aligning with their biological purposes. They serve as blueprints, determining body structure, fat distribution, bone density, muscle mass, and more.
Disclaimer:
This article does not address or take a position on matters of sexual identity or politics. It is solely focused on health and wellness.
How Hormones Affect Self-Identity and the Body
Hormones significantly influence how we feel, but each one functions differently. While this isn’t an exhaustive discussion, we’ll briefly touch on a few key hormones:
- Adrenal Gland Imbalance: When the adrenal gland is out of balance, the body feels heavy and lethargic, with suppressed emotions.
- High Estrogen in Males: Elevated estrogen levels in men can cause a softer, more emotional state, leading to symptoms like erectile dysfunction.
- Low Testosterone: A deficiency in testosterone can lead to increased body fat, reduced muscle mass, and lower physical strength.
Beyond physical effects, testosterone plays a crucial role in psychological identity. It influences a person’s sense of power and ability to effect change in their environment.
When someone feels powerless to make changes or impact their surroundings, they can slip into apathy. Testosterone drives a man’s sense of confidence, competence, and the “I can do it” attitude. When levels drop, so do willpower, willingness, and self-esteem, potentially leading to a downward spiral.
The Importance of Testosterone
While all hormones contribute to overall health, testosterone is vital for maintaining sanity, effectiveness, and confidence. A society composed of individuals with high willpower, effectiveness, and ability will not only survive but thrive.
This isn’t just about individual health. On a societal level, we must recognize the importance of testosterone and treat it as a necessary and valuable hormone.
At MultiGen Wellness, we take a comprehensive approach to endocrinology, evaluating the entire endocrine system to understand how hormones interact and influence one another. Testosterone, given its profound impact, is a key focus of our work.
We also offer free health consultations. Contact us to learn how we can help improve your health and transform your life.