Reedy Natasha, Luyke Trish, Robinson Brendon, Dawson Rhonda, Terry Daniel
School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, QLD 4350, Australia.
Darling Downs Health, Toowoomba, QLD 4350, Australia.
Nurs Rep. 2025 Aug 7;15(8):287. doi: 10.3390/nursrep15080287.
Men have historically contributed significantly to mental health nursing, particularly in inpatient settings, where their presence has supported patient recovery and safety. Despite this legacy, men remain under-represented in the nursing workforce, and addressing this imbalance is critical to workforce sustainability. This study offers a novel contribution by exploring the lived experiences, motivations, and professional identities of men in mental health nursing, an area that has received limited empirical attention. The aim of the study is to examine the characteristics, qualities, and attributes of mental health nurses who are male, which contributes to their attraction to and retention within the profession. A qualitative interpretive inquiry was conducted among nurses who were male and either currently or previously employed in mental health settings. Two focus groups were conducted using semi-structured questions to explore their career pathways, motivations, professional identities, and perceived contributions. Thematic analysis was used to identify key themes and patterns in their narratives. Seven participants, with 10-30 years of experience, participated. They had entered the profession through diverse pathways, expressing strong alignment between personal values and professional roles. Five themes emerged and centred on mental health being the heart of health, personal and professional fulfillment, camaraderie and teamwork, a profound respect for individuals and compassion, and overcoming and enjoying the challenge. Mental health nurses who are male bring unique contributions to the profession, embodying compassion, resilience, and ethical advocacy. Their experiences challenge traditional gender norms and redefine masculinity in health care. Fostering inclusive environments, mentorship, and leadership opportunities is essential to support their growth. These insights inform strategies to strengthen recruitment, retention, and the future of mental health nursing.
从历史上看，男性对精神卫生护理做出了重大贡献，尤其是在住院环境中，他们的存在有助于患者的康复和安全。尽管有这一传统，但男性在护理人员中的占比仍然较低，解决这一不平衡问题对于劳动力的可持续发展至关重要。本研究通过探索男性精神卫生护理人员的生活经历、动机和职业身份，做出了新颖的贡献，而这一领域受到的实证关注有限。该研究的目的是考察男性精神卫生护士的特征、品质和特质，这些因素促使他们投身并留在该行业。对目前或曾在精神卫生机构工作的男性护士进行了定性解释性调查。通过半结构化问题开展了两个焦点小组讨论，以探讨他们的职业道路、动机、职业身份以及所感知到的贡献。采用主题分析法来确定他们叙述中的关键主题和模式。七名有10至30年工作经验的参与者参与了研究。他们通过不同途径进入该行业，表达了个人价值观与职业角色之间的强烈契合。出现了五个主题，核心围绕精神健康是健康的核心、个人和职业成就、同志情谊与团队合作、对个体的深深尊重与同情，以及克服并享受挑战。男性精神卫生护士为该行业带来了独特贡献，体现了同情心、适应力和道德倡导。他们的经历挑战了传统性别规范，重新定义了医疗保健领域的男子气概。营造包容的环境、提供指导和领导机会对于支持他们的成长至关重要。这些见解为加强精神卫生护理的招聘、留用和未来发展的策略提供了参考。
