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Masculinity, Social Connection, and Loneliness: A Contextual Behavioral Science Approach to Men's Social
Elizabeth C Neilson1, Daniel W M Maitland1
1Department of Psychology and Counseling, University of Missouri - Kansas City, 5030 Cherry Street, Kansas City, MO 64410, United States.
Journal of Contextual Behavioral Science
|June 2, 2025
Summary
Many men experience loneliness due to societal pressures related to masculinity. These pressures hinder vulnerable self-disclosure and responsiveness, crucial for developing intimacy and reducing loneliness.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Public Health
Background:
- Loneliness is a significant public health issue, with many men reporting unmet needs for social connection.
- The Interpersonal Process Model of Intimacy (IPMI) highlights vulnerable self-disclosure and responsiveness as key to developing intimacy.
- Masculinity norms can influence men's social behaviors and relationship dynamics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To apply the IPMI from a contextual behavior science perspective to understand men's loneliness.
- To examine how masculinity influences men's engagement in intimacy-building behaviors.
- To inform future research and clinical interventions for men's loneliness.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing research on men's social relationships and masculinity.
- Application of the IPMI framework to analyze men's self-disclosure and responsiveness.
- Analysis through a contextual behavior science lens.
Main Results:
- Men's adherence to masculinity norms often inhibits vulnerable self-disclosure (e.g., expressing emotions, seeking help).
- Men may struggle with responsiveness, sometimes reacting with judgment or confusion to disclosures.
- Perceived stress related to receiving help, due to social norms, can also impede intimacy.
Conclusions:
- Masculinity significantly impacts men's ability to engage in behaviors essential for intimacy, contributing to loneliness.
- Clinical interventions should address how masculinity influences men's social connection and intimacy.
- Future research should explore tailored strategies to foster intimacy and reduce loneliness in men.
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