Masculinity, Mental Health, and Attitudes on Willingness to Seek Help in Male College-Aged Students

• In Event: Opportunities Outside Academics to Support Student Success

Abstract

Despite the numerous studies suggesting that psychological treatments are equally efficacious for men and women, many men continue to exhibit reluctance toward seeking treatment for their psychological concerns. This qualitative study investigated male college students’ (N=12) experiences and perceptions that contributed to their beliefs about masculinity and decisions to seek mental health counseling. Data analysis of semi-structured interviews produced 13 dimensions that addressed Traditional Masculinity, Socialization of Gender Norms, Self-Reliance, Stigma, Changing Attitudes, Protecting Masculinity, Masking and Avoiding, Mental Health Literacy, Emotional Openness, Counseling Center Strategies, Accessibility and Removing Barriers, Comfort and Emotional Vulnerability, and Trust and Privacy. The data analyses and interpretations produced evidence-based strategies to shape educational learning environments and increase male college student help-seeking behaviors.

Authors

• Aresh Assadi, University of Arkansas at Little Rock
  Presenting Author

• Jim Vander Putten, Mercer University
  Presenting Author

• Amanda L. Nolen, Georgia Institute of Technology
  Presenting Author