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Voluntary male mentors' lived experience of social engagement with men in their community
Journal article   Open access   Peer reviewed

Voluntary male mentors' lived experience of social engagement with men in their community

Mark Henderson, Mark Hughes, John Hurley and Gregory Smith
Health & Social Care in the Community, Vol.30, pp.e6286-e6293
15/12/2022
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/hsc.14067
PMID: 36264134
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Published (Version of record)CC BY V4.0,  Open Access
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Published (Version of record)CC BY V4.0,  Open

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Abstract

authentic community connection empathy male mentor volunteer Social work not elsewhere classified Studies of men and masculinities Community services not elsewhere classified
Men volunteering to mentor other men is a growing form of social engagement in Australia. Masculine norms associated with not disclosing emotional distress or discussing loneliness are often set aside by participating in these one-to-one relationships. Mentors have reported improvement in their well-being and a desire to contribute more. In this phenomenological study, which draws on hermeneutic methodology, 12 men who voluntarily met and mentored another adult man for a minimum of 6 months participated in a semi-structured interview. Findings showed non-judgement and deep listening facilitated a rewarding and personally developmental relationship. Most voluntary mentors experienced substantial changes in their masculine views, particularly with the regard to trust and openness with others. This experience has implications for men realising their ability to engage others and for community well-being.

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