Boys Believe Real Men Don't Get Check-Ups
April 9, 2007
(Ivanhoe Newswire) -- Teenage boys consumed with being "real men" are less likely to have regular doctor check-ups, according to the results of a recent study.
The Johns Hopkins study surveyed 1,600 boys ages 15 to 19 about their perceptions of manhood and their use of preventive health services. Overall, 66 percent had been to the doctor for a physical exam within the past year. While strong traditional beliefs about manhood lessened the chances a boy would have such an exam, parental communication appeared to increase them.
Overall, boys who reported good communication with both of their parents about general health and sexual health issues were more likely to receive preventive health care. Being open about these issues with their fathers also increased the likelihood boys with traditional beliefs about manhood would take advantage of these services.
"We should send out the message that seeing a doctor is not a sign of weakness and encourage parents to talk with their sons about sexual health, especially as they grow older," says study author Arik Marcell, M.D., M.P.H.
The researchers gauged beliefs about masculinity in the boys with a questionnaire that asked them to agree or disagree with statements like: "Men are always ready for sex," "It is essential for a guy to get respect from others," and "I could be friends with a gay person."
SOURCE: Pediatrics, published online April 4, 2007
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