NCJ Number
174838
Date Published
1995
Length
251 pages
Annotation
This volume explores men and masculinity in relation to social welfare, considers issues concerned with the provision and use of welfare services by men, and provides a framework for understanding ways in which men can alter oppressive power relations that operate in welfare agencies and society.
Abstract
The author presents a critical analysis of welfare agencies, services, and service users, focusing on the theory of masculinity. He demonstrates potential linkages between personal and structural change that are essential to a less oppressive social environment and notes this is an urgent task for three reasons: (1) the need to break down gender barriers in society; (2) the need to help men develop more emotionally satisfying lives; and (3) the need to counter men's violence toward women, children, and other men. The author discusses masculine behaviors developed by men in certain contexts, such as lone fathers, men caring for adult dependents, and gay men caring for partners. He contends experiences in these contexts can provide guidance to other men engaged in the process of challenging and transforming themselves. References