Burgess, Matthew (2024) An exploration of masculinity as a barrier to help-seeking behaviours for adolescent boys. Professional Doctorate thesis, Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust / University of Essex. Full text available

Preview

PDF (Burgess(An)) Burgess - An exploration.pdf Download (2MB) | Preview

Abstract

Male psychological wellbeing has become a growing concern due to the higher rates of suicide in males compared to females. One potential reason for this is due to the socialised norms of masculinity, which often encourage suppression of emotion and stoic independence in managing emotional wellbeing (EW) difficulties. This study explores the discourses used by adolescent males which uphold and progress these masculine norms, and how these act as a barrier to emotional expression and help-seeking. One semi-structured focus group was conducted with four male participants and a critical discourse analysis was undertaken to aid understanding of four key themes. The analysis found that masculine discourses are used by adolescent males to vie for position within their peer social hierarchy, idealise masculine norms in emotion-related behaviour, shape boys’ help-seeking behaviours, and enable avoidance and prevention of emotion-related talk. Findings were considered in relation to existing literature and implications for Educational Psychologists have been highlighted. Considerations have been made to limitations and potential further research.

Item Type:	Thesis (Professional Doctorate)
Additional Information:	Thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the Professional Doctorate in Child, Community and Educational Psychology awarded by the Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust in association with the University of Essex
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Professional Doctorate in Child, Community and Educational Psychology
Subjects:	Children, Young People and Developmental Pyschology > Adolescents- Psychology Children, Young People and Developmental Pyschology > Emotions Sex Psychology > Males/Men
Department/People:	Children, Young Adult and Family Services Research
URI:	https://repository.tavistockandportman.ac.uk/id/eprint/3012

Actions (Library Staff login required)

View Item