Self-perceptions of masculinities and testicular cancer: Qualitative explorations

Dax, V; Ftanou, M; Tran, B; Lewin, J; Ayton, D; Seidler, Z; Wallace, T; Wiley, JF

Author(s): Dax, V; Ftanou, M; Tran, B; Lewin, J; Ayton, D; Seidler, Z; Wallace, T; Wiley, JF;
Details: Publication Year 2024-03,Volume 33,Issue #3,Page e6333
Journal Title: Psycho-Oncology
Publication Type: Research article
Abstract: OBJECTIVE: Masculinities have been explored in men with testicular cancer (TC), though limited contemporary research is available on traditional masculine norms important to masculine self-perception. The purpose of this research was to explore the discourse of TC experience in relation to masculine self-perception. METHODS: A qualitative descriptive study was conducted consisting of semi-structured interviews with 21 men. Men were aged between 31 and 47 (M(age) = 35.7). Most men were diagnosed with Stage 1 cancer (66.6%), all men had finished active treatment and time since diagnosis ranged from 17.3 to 71.8 months (M = 47.2). Independent coding was conducted by two researchers and was refined in coding meetings with authors. Themes were developed in a predominantly deductive manner, and analysis of themes was undertaken using a reflexive analysis approach. RESULTS: Traditional masculine norms showed differing relationships to masculine self-perception. Two main themes were identified [1] Maintained or enhanced masculine self-perception and [2] threats to masculine self-perception. Subthemes demonstrated that maintaining emotional control, strength and 'winning' was important to men, and reduced physical competencies (i.e., strength, sexual dysfunction, virility) challenged self-perception. Strict adherence to traditional norms in response to threatened self-perception related to psychological distress. CONCLUSION: Leveraging traditionally masculine norms such as physical strength and control and developing flexible adaptations of masculinities should be encouraged with men with TC to retain self-perception and potentially enable better coping. Masculine self-perception of gay/bisexual men may centre around sexual functioning, though further research is required.
Publisher: Wiley
Keywords: Male; Humans; Adult; Middle Aged; *Testicular Neoplasms; Masculinity; Sexual Behavior; Self Concept; *Neoplasms, Germ Cell and Embryonal; cancer; oncology; orchiectomy; psychology; psycho‐oncology; qualitative; survivorship; testicular cancer; testicular neoplasm
Department(s): Psychosocial Oncology; Medical Oncology; AYA Cancer Service
Publisher's Version: https://doi.org/10.1002/pon.6333
Open Access at Publisher's Site: https://doi.org/10.1002/pon.6333
Terms of Use/Rights Notice: Refer to copyright notice on published article.

Creation Date: 2024-04-02 01:27:22

Last Modified: 2024-04-02 01:33:27