Publication Date

Spring 2024

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Counselor Education

Advisor

Zachary McNiece; Dolores Mena; Jason Laker

Abstract

This narrative inquiry study was conducted to explore college men's conceptualization of masculinity and gender norms and their relationship with mental health-related help-seeking behaviors. Through semi-structured interviews with seven men, I gathered their perceptions of mental health support and the obstacles they encountered in accessing it. Drawing from Connell's conceptualization of masculinities, this study locates their narratives within the broader framework of societal expectations, highlighting the complexities of men's attitudes and behaviors toward mental health counseling. Ultimately, five critical narratives were discovered: a) Initial models of masculinity emerge through socialization; b) Men encounter barriers to mental health care from all directions; c) By challenging traditional masculinity, men forge an individual definition; d) Men hold women accountable for their mental health care and gender socialization; and e) There is an expectation on mental health care systems to change. Additionally, two sub-themes are highlighted: a) racial and ethnic stigma around mental health and b) access to counseling. The paper concludes with a discussion of the implications of the findings and suggestions for future research, including new considerations for discourse on masculinity, mental health help-seeking behaviors, and the development of supportive counseling interventions for me.

Download

Share

COinS