Understanding help-seeking in men : psychologists’ perspectives : a qualitative study

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to get a deeper understanding of why men are still finding it harder to seek help and, most importantly, what inhibits them from doing so. This research study also focused on the experience of men when they are undergoing therapy along with the techniques and strategies that could be useful in encouraging more men to seek help. In this study, semi-structured interviews were carried out with four professionals; two psychotherapists and two psychologists. Expert sampling was used since the research study entailed people with known experience and expertise on the subject matter. Following data collection, thematic analysis was conducted, from which four overarching themes emerged; ‘Reasons for Not Seeking Help’, ‘Men as Clients’, ‘Making Therapy More Attractive’ and ‘Moving Towards Change’. From the data gathered, it was evident that the majority of men are still reluctant to seek help, with societal factors being the most influential aspects of this behaviour. These findings, together with other results were discussed in relation to existing literature. Recommendations for future research were also proposed.