Understanding and capitalizing on men's advantages in nursing

The minority status of men in nursing often results in advantages that promote rather than hinder their careers, unlike women in male-dominated professions. Benefits to men in nursing are associated with the desire for personal and professional power and with stereotypes about masculine traits. These stereotypes are initially emphasized in the family and reinforced by the power differences and patriarchal structure that continue to characterize the healthcare industry. These advantages translate into preference in hiring and promotion. Strategies that capitalize on increasing men's awareness of these benefits may be employed to increase the number of men in nursing.