Abstract | In line with the shift towards prioritising lay accounts and narratives of chronic illness in critical health research, there is an emerging literature on men, subjectivities and experiences of distress. We argue in this paper that subjectivities and distress for men are an important area for critical research and scholarship. In the area of health, very little is known about men’s subjectivities or the meanings they give to – and how they cope with or seek help for – distress. At the same time, current theories of gender relations, performativity and wellbeing as they pertain to men are likely influence future work. However, current theories (and qualitative research involving men and women) are pointing to considerable complexity. In this paper, we outline what is known about distress and men, and consider the utility of gender relations, performativity, subjectivities and wellbeing for a better understanding of distress. We scan the horizon and ask: What are the biopsychosocial influences on subjectivities and distress, and how should these be considered in relation to men and masculinities? What are the implications for theorising about men, as well as mental health research? |
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