Bridging the Gender Divide: Facilitating the Educational Path for Men in Nursing

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Gender Studies
• Sociology of Professions

Background:

• Despite incremental increases, men remain underrepresented in the nursing profession.
• Men entering nursing confront stereotypes and gender-based barriers.
• These barriers include lack of historical context, role models, role strain, discrimination, and isolation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and describe gender-based barriers faced by men in nursing school.
• To provide strategies for enhancing the learning experience of male nursing students.
• To highlight initiatives undertaken by a nursing school to mitigate these barriers.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and analysis of gender-based barriers in nursing education.
• Description of specific challenges encountered by male nursing students.
• Presentation of practical strategies and institutional efforts to support male students.

Main Results:

• Identified key barriers: stereotypes, lack of historical awareness, absence of role models, role strain, discrimination, and isolation.
• Outlined actionable strategies to improve male students' educational experiences.
• Showcased a case study of a nursing school implementing supportive measures.

Conclusions:

• Acknowledging and actively addressing gender barriers is crucial for nursing schools.
• Intentional strategies can foster a more inclusive environment for all students.
• These efforts contribute to enhancing diversity within the nursing profession.