Summary
Contents
Subject index
A multidisciplinary, international approach is taken in this volume which contextualizes men's health issues within the broader theoretical framework of men's studies. The contributors argue that gender is a key factor for understanding the patterns of men's health risks, the ways men perceive and use their bodies and men's psychological adjustment to illness itself. The first part introduces perspectives of men's studies and their relevance to understanding men's health. Part Two explores the links between traditional gender roles, men's health and larger structural and cultural contexts.
Identity Dilemmas of Chronically Ill Men
Identity Dilemmas of Chronically Ill Men
Consider this story. A 45-year-old man had had a serious heart attack 3 years before while cycling. Being a competitive cyclist had complemented and extended his identities as a hard-driving, no-nonsense businessman, a former military man, and the traditional breadwinner and head of his household. These masculine identities—male athlete, competitive businessman, Vietnam veteran, and breadwinner—formed the boundaries and content of his self-concept. A business failure just before his heart attack forced his wife to go to work. After his heart attack, his doctor prescribed a strenuous cardiac rehabilitation program. Without my asking, he stated, “I didn't know who I was for a while. I'd kind of [think], ‘God, if I can do this exercise, ...
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