The experiences of men related to help-seeking, counseling, and coping: An interpretive phenomenological analysis

This Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis was designed to explore the lived experiences of men in middle adulthood (between the ages of 31 and 55) regarding help-seeking behavior related to coping, self-worth, masculinity, and counseling. Ten men were chosen for this study. Findings from participant responses included a lack of coping skills taught early in life, the view that masculinity demands that men do not show weakness, avoidance and similar coping skills, and resistance to asking for help through professional counseling services until symptoms were unbearably severe. The results also indicated that although some participants had negative opinions of counseling prior to seeking help, many now have a positive opinion of counseling in general. In addition, participants reported a desire to stay in counseling longer or regret that they did not seek help sooner. This study intends to inform change in the field of professional counseling and to encourage counselors to develop a gender-related sensitivity when working with all clients but with males in particular given the unique circumstances around which they reach out for help.