How Masculinity Impedes African American Men From Seeking Mental Health Treatment

Abstract

This study addresses the pronounced mental health disparities faced by African American men, characterized by the heightened severity of mental health conditions and their reluctance to seek mental health treatment. Persistent neglect toward the mental health of African American men perpetuates systemic inequities and heightens the stigma surrounding mental well-being within their communities. This study investigates the interaction of masculinity, distrust in doctors, and parental support on attitudes influencing African American men’s reluctance to seek mental health care. A survey administered to 74 African American men revealed a negative correlation between masculinity and attitudes toward seeking mental health treatment. In contrast, no significant correlations were found between distrust in doctors and parental support on attitudes toward seeking mental health treatment. These findings were analyzed using Pearson’s correlation, underscoring the urgent need to address masculine norms in mental health discourse among African American men. Implications of the findings and future directions for masculinity in African American men are discussed.