Masculine Ideals and Mental Health: Exploring Barriers to Help-Seeking Among Adolescent Boys
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Authors
Bolton, Nicholas
Issue Date
2025-08-16
Type
Capstone
Language
en
Keywords
masculinity , mental health , adolescent boys , help-seeking , gender norms
Alternative Title
Abstract
This capstone examines the impact of traditional and hegemonic masculine gender norms on the mental health and help-seeking behaviours of adolescent boys in North America. Despite the increasing availability of mental health resources, young men remain significantly less likely than their peers to seek psychological support—a disparity largely attributed to entrenched societal expectations of masculinity, including stoicism, self-reliance, and hypersexuality. Through the lenses of social constructivism and the Gender Role Strain Paradigm, the review explores how these norms are learned, internalized, and enforced through family, peer groups, educational institutions, and digital media. Findings highlight that adherence to restrictive masculine ideals elevates boys' risk for mental health concerns, exacerbates social isolation, and contributes to alarming rates of distress and suicide. The review synthesizes research on the mechanisms of gender socialization, emphasizing the roles of peers and the so-called "Man Box" in perpetuating harmful standards. It also addresses the evolving cultural landscape, recognizing gradual shifts toward a more inclusive understanding of masculinity, yet notes the persistent stigma surrounding vulnerability and help-seeking. Practical recommendations include expanding the role of school counsellors, providing diversified and accessible support options, and fostering environments where emotional openness is normalized for boys. The study ultimately calls for a redefinition of masculinity to promote psychological well-being, arguing that systemic interventions are crucial to dismantling barriers and empowering boys to pursue mental health support without fear of social reprisal.