Anglo-Australian Male Blue-Collar Workers Discuss Gender and Health Issues

Abstract

This qualitative research project investigated male blue-collar workers’ understanding of health determinants, gender issues related to health, and workplace health promotion. It is theorised that social and cultural interpretations of masculine and feminine selves that are associated with biological male and female bodies have an important impact on men’s health. Strong commitment to the male gender role may lead to stress and dysfunction and restrict the types of coping strategies available to some males. Blue-collar workers’ insight into health determinants includes behavioural risk factors such as maladaptive behaviours, psychosocial risk factors such as low perceived power and self-efficacy, and social circumstances such as poverty, stressful work, and lack of control over one’s life patterns. We conclude that opportunities exist to support and promote the health status of male blue-collar workers in the workplace.