This engaging and thought-provoking talk will explore the evolving concept of masculinity in contemporary society and its significant implications for mental health professionals. As traditional notions of masculinity are challenged and redefined, understanding these shifts is crucial for effective practice in mental health settings.
About the Presenter
Levi Weinhagen has a Master of Social Work and is an LGSW. He has spent the past decade leading race and gender justice trainings for workplaces as well as coaching executives on self-awareness and intercultural capacity development. He is a Qualified Administrator of the Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI) and the Intercultural Conflict Styles Inventory (ICS). Levi is a graduate of HOPE Community’s Sustainable Progress Through Engaging Active Citizens (SPEAC) community organizer training program. He has been performing improvisation, sketch comedy, and making theater for over 25 years and is the co-founder of the All-ages theater company Comedy Suitcase.
Suggested Reading list
Here are some recommended readings that delve into the themes of modern masculinity, mental health, and the interplay between gender roles and psychological well-being:
Books
"Masculinities" by R.W. Connell
This foundational text explores the concept of multiple masculinities and how they influence social dynamics and individual behavior.
"The Will to Change: Men, Masculinity, and Love" by bell hooks
A critical examination of how traditional masculinity harms men and society, and a call for a new understanding of masculinity that embraces emotional openness.
"Guyland: The Perilous World Where Boys Become Men" by Michael Kimmel
This book investigates the culture of young men in America, exploring the pressures they face and the impact of societal expectations on their mental health.
"Men's Health: A Guide to the Issues" by Courtenay W. H.
A comprehensive overview of the key determinants of men's health, including the influence of gender roles and societal expectations.
"The Mask of Masculinity" by Lewis Howes
Howes discusses the masks men wear to protect themselves and how these masks can hinder emotional expression and mental health.
Articles and Journals
"Constructions of masculinity and their influence on men's well-being: A theory of gender and health" by Courtenay W. H.
This article discusses how traditional constructions of masculinity impact men's health behaviors and mental well-being.
"Men's help-seeking for mental health: A review of the literature" by Oliffe, Kelly, Bottorff, Johnson, & Wong
A literature review that examines men's help-seeking behaviors and the barriers they face in accessing mental health services.
"Gender and mental health: A review of the literature" by Iwamoto D. K., Liao L., Liu W. M.
This article reviews the gender differences in mental health issues and the implications for treatment and support.
"The role of social support in men's mental health" by Fiori K. L., Denckla C. A.
An exploration of how social support networks impact mental health outcomes for men.
Online Resources
Men's Health Network (MHN) - https://menshealthnetwork.org/
A nonprofit organization that provides resources and information on men's health issues, including mental health.
The Good Men Project - https://goodmenproject.com/
An online platform that discusses modern masculinity, featuring articles and personal stories about men's experiences and challenges.
American Psychological Association (APA) - Guidelines for Psychological Practice with Boys and Men - https://www.apa.org/about/policy/boys-men-practice-guidelines.pdf
A comprehensive set of guidelines that address the unique psychological needs of boys and men, promoting a better understanding of masculinity in mental health contexts.
