The significant disparity in global suicide rates between men and women has been highlighted by a recent study published in Heliyon. Men are found to be two to four times more likely to take their own lives, with a considerable portion of these cases going undetected until it is too late. This increased risk has been attributed to socio-cultural factors, particularly those linked to traditional masculine ideologies.
The research, conducted by a team from the Department of Psychology at the University of Zurich, sheds light on how adherence to traditional male roles impacts mental health. These ideologies, rooted in a patriarchal framework, emphasize traits such as independence, emotional control, and avoidance of vulnerability. Men who align closely with these norms are at a higher risk of developing severe mental health issues, including suicidal tendencies.
A long-term U.S. study involving around 10,000 young men revealed that those who strongly identified with traditional masculine roles were more likely to attempt suicide over a 20-year period. To further explore this correlation, nearly 500 men from German-speaking regions were recruited through flyers and social media. Participants completed surveys assessing their conformity to masculine ideologies, symptoms of depression, and suicidal thoughts.
The results indicated that 13% of respondents had attempted suicide, while a quarter reported having been diagnosed with depression. About 20% had previously undergone psychotherapy. These high percentages were attributed to the nature of the recruitment, which likely attracted individuals already experiencing mental health issues. Despite this, the data provided significant insights into the socio-cultural factors influencing male suicide.
The study identified three distinct groups based on their adherence to traditional masculine ideologies. The majority, comprising 60%, were labeled Egalitarians and showed minimal alignment with traditional norms. The second group, called Players (15%), exhibited patriarchal attitudes, emphasizing sexual conquests and heterosexuality. The final group, named Stoics (25%), conformed strongly to traditional norms, prioritizing emotional control, independence, and risk-taking behaviors.
It was found that Stoics faced more than double the suicide risk compared to Egalitarians. Their unwillingness to show vulnerability and their tendency to rely solely on themselves during crises often led to tunnel vision, where suicide seemed like the only solution. This group also demonstrated higher engagement in risky behaviors, further compounding their vulnerability.
Interestingly, the Stoics were notably younger than the other groups, suggesting that traditional masculine ideologies may appeal more strongly during young adulthood—a critical phase for identity formation. These ideologies provide a sense of belonging and self-definition but also create barriers to seeking help during mental health crises.
The findings emphasize the importance of targeted interventions for this high-risk group. Medical professionals are encouraged to recognize and address the unique ways in which depression manifests in men, such as through somatic symptoms or aggressive behavior. Male-specific psychotherapy for depression is being developed to help reduce adherence to harmful gender roles.
Untreated depression remains a leading cause of the elevated suicide rates among men.
Reference:
1. Lukas Eggenberger et al, Men's Suicidal thoughts and behaviors and conformity to masculine norms: A person-centered, latent profile approach, Heliyon (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e39094
(Input from various sources)
(Rehash/Ankur Deka/MSM)