Page 13 - PR Mag Nov19

Written by Michelle Stratemeyer, Associate Lecturer, School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne,
Adriana Vargas Saenz, PhD Candidate, School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne,
Elise Holland, Honorary Research Fellow, University of Melbourne

The guidelines also highlight the negative links between According to the guidelines, we need to shift beliefs around self-
male childhood abuse and victimisation, and later aggressive reliance so men feel more comfortable looking after themselves
behaviour, suicidal thoughts, and substance abuse. and seeking professional help and services when needed.
Recognising these patterns offers an opportunity for therapists Taken together, the APA guidelines have the potential to improve
to engage in gender-appropriate conversations and tailor the lives of men. The guidelines squarely focus on the disparities
behavioural change to the problems that plague men. in outcomes between men and women, and provide clear
Second, the guidelines highlight the importance of encouraging suggestions on improving men’s well-being through strategies
men’s positive involvement in families. like strengthening family engagement and changing attitudes
Despite increasing numbers of dual-income households, there towards embracing healthy behaviours.
is still strong social pressure for men to be the providers and Many non-profit organisations and advocacy groups are already
breadwinners rather than taking on nurturing and caring roles. taking on this challenge to encourage healthy masculinity among
This expectation can come at the expense of men’s relationships boys and men. Our Watch, Australia’s national foundation to
with their partners, children and extended family. prevent violence against women and their children, for instance,
Encouraging men’s positive involvement with their families has provides resources and articles for young people on masculinity
been shown to improve health and well-being outcomes for and what it means to be a man through their campaign, The Line.
men, their children and their partners. By recognising that gender also affects men, we can move
It may have spillover benefits in making work practices more towards improving the way that clinicians, practitioners and
progressive, with better balance between paid work and time society support boys and men.
spent with loved ones.
Third, the guidelines highlight the need for boys and men to
more willingly seek help and health care. To learn more about Our Watch,
Men are more likely than women to die from diseases such
as colorectal cancer, which can be prevented with the right visit - www.ourwatch.org.au/
health care. Or follow them on Facebook -
In terms of mental health, men’s reluctance to express emotions
and seek help through therapy may underlie the high rates of @theline
self-harm and suicide.
Traditional masculinity also encourages risky and competitive
actions in men, resulting in unintentional injuries being the
leading cause of death in men under 45.

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