About
Dr Stephen M. Whitehead is a sociologist, feminist, educationalist and writer of international standing. He is widely recognised for his pioneering work on men and masculinities, gender identity, and inclusivity, and has authored or co-authored 20 books alongside numerous academic papers and chapters. His research spans gender theory, identity, globalisation, education and organisational studies, and his writing has been translated into 17 languages.
Stephen’s early works, Men and Masculinities (2001), The Masculinities Reader (2002) and The Many Faces of Men (2004), established him as a leading voice in the study of men and gender identity. He later became the first sociologist to define “toxic masculinity” (2014) and co-created the pro-feminist concept of “toxic femininity.” His influential “Total Inclusivity” framework has been applied across schools, universities and workplaces worldwide, with Routledge titles such as Total Inclusivity at Work (2022), Becoming a Totally Inclusive School (2022), and Creating a Totally Inclusive University (2022) now key references in the field.
His more recent books — Toxic Masculinity: Curing the Virus (2020), Self-Love for Women (2024), and Design Your Self: 21 Life Lessons (2025) — reflect his belief in the power of self-awareness and self-empowerment. His 20th book, The End of Sex: The Gender Revolution and its Consequences (September 2025), has been described as “a thought-provoking and ambitious work” for its exploration of independent femininity, the crisis of traditional masculinity, and the impact of technology on modern relationships.
Stephen’s academic career began after years spent outside the university sector. Raised in Southport, he worked as a florist, pub landlord, musician and athletics coach before entering higher education in his thirties. He went on to earn a PhD in Sociology and Education, becoming Senior Lecturer in Education at Keele University and Programme Director of its MBA in Education. He later served as International Programme Coordinator, establishing postgraduate teaching programmes for educators across Asia and the Middle East, before founding his own international school consultancy.
Since moving to Thailand in 2009, Stephen has combined consultancy with writing, lecturing, and speaking engagements. He has been a Visiting Professor in Gender Studies at Shih Hsin University, Taipei, co-founded education journals and consultancies across Asia, and remains in demand as a trainer on gender, organisational culture, leadership and inclusivity.
Away from academia, Stephen is a lifelong runner and self-described “super-ager.” Ordained as a Buddhist monk in northern Thailand in 2004, he continues to practise daily meditation and draws on Buddhist principles in both his writing and personal life. His perspective — shaped by decades of academic research, professional practice, and lived experience — makes him a compelling voice on gender, identity, education and inclusivity in today’s world.
Further Information:
Personal Website: Stephen-Whitehead.com
LinkedIn: Personal Profile
Books: Amazon Store
