Precarious manhood is a sociological and psychological concept suggesting that manhood is an unstable status that needs to be continually earned and proven through socially valued displays of masculinity, such as physical prowess or economic competence. This idea contrasts with womanhood, which is often seen as a stable, inherent status. Precarious manhood can lead to anxiety, aggressive behavior, and other negative outcomes as men navigate societal pressures to continually validate their masculinity.