Positive masculinity in the outdoors: applying a systems lens to evaluate an adolescent outdoor education program

Su, Rung-Xuan; McLean, Scott; Dallat, Clare; Lane, Ben R.

doi:10.1007/s42322-021-00078-7

Journal of Outdoor and Environmental Education

2021

DOI: 10.1007/s42322-021-00078-7

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Positive masculinity in the outdoors: applying a systems lens to evaluate an adolescent outdoor education program

Rung-Xuan Su

Scott McLean

Clare Dallat

et al.

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Cited by 5 publications

(2 citation statements)

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“…Further, some recent interest in men's experiences of masculinity appears in the OAE literature. Su et al (2021), evaluated an OAE program designed to produce a "positive masculinity" in adolescent boys, an implicit indictment of the masculine norms in the field.…”

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Men's Perspectives on Gender Relations in the Outdoor Education Field: Furthering the Case for a Hybrid Masculinity

Kennedy

2023

Journal of Experiential Education

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Background: Scholarship has demonstrated the influence of hegemonic masculine norms on values and practices in outdoor adventure education. However, recent publications indicate that men outdoor leaders may be increasingly aware of gender biases and consequently changing their practice. To date, few publications have considered men outdoor leaders’ understanding of masculinity in the field and how it affects their practice and professional interactions. Purpose: This study critically examined multiple aspects of gender relations from men outdoor leaders’ perspectives to determine if observed changes in some men's practice signal changes toward a more equitable understanding of masculinity or merely a pivot to maintain the status quo. Methodology/Approach: A single-embedded case study methodology was employed. Interview, observation, and artifact data were collected from 18 men outdoor adventure education leaders across the United States and Canada. Findings/Conclusions: Participants noted awareness of gender inequity and articulated some strategies employed to combat sexism, particularly those associated with gendered student expectations. However, multiple participants also demonstrated gendered blind spots and supported gender hierarchy. Implications: Participants’ demonstrated awareness of gender issues, but the considerable blind spots identified in the data indicate a troubling lack of critical self-reflection and provide support for dominant hybrid masculinity.

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Men's Perspectives on Gender Relations in the Outdoor Education Field: Furthering the Case for a Hybrid Masculinity

Kennedy

2023

Journal of Experiential Education

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“…17 Programs reporting better engagement and effectiveness for adolescent boys are typically activity-based, group-based, and goal-oriented. 18,19 These programs aim to promote critical reflection and dedicate time to identity formation activities to support mental health and help-seeking in the context of distress. 5 As a gender-sensitive developmental initiative with growing international interest, rite-of-passage programs are growing in popularity and scope.…”

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The Making of Men Program: A Mixed-Methods Evaluation of a Gender-Sensitive Rite of Passage Program for Adolescent Males

Wilson

Gwyther

Swann³

et al. 2021

International Journal of Men's Social and Community Health

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IntroductionCurrent gendered health disparities impacting the wellbeing of boys and young men require new early intervention-focussed approaches. Health promotion programs developed with young men’s health needs and preferences in mind commonly report positive outcomes. Male-specific rite of passage programs aim to formally acknowledge the life-stage transition from boyhood to manhood through a holistic focus on identity, community, and social responsibility. While these programs are growing in popularity, there is limited data available on their effectiveness. MethodsThis study undertook a pilot evaluation of the Making of Men rite of passage program in a sample of second-ary school boys (n=61, age M=16.0, SD=0.5) and their accompanying fathers or male mentors (n=47, age M=52.1, SD=5.8 years) providing non-matched pre-test, post-test, alongside follow-up data for participating boys. Qualitative interviews were also undertaken with 15 individuals (5 mothers, 6 staff members, 4 fathers). ResultsQuantitative program feedback indicated acceptability, with most respondents providing positive feedback, particularly from participating fathers. Exploratory quantitative effects indicated potential improvements in subjective social support and open communication among boys. Fathers appeared to report lower confor-mity to traditional masculine norms post-program, in addition to more open communication. Qualitative interviews identified three main themes: enabling relational bonds, creating a men-specific context, and supporting developmental transitions. ConclusionsPositive program acceptability and promising outcome effects highlighted the present rite of passage program as a promising mechanism for supporting healthy masculine identity development among adolescent males.

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Outdoor education and becoming-man

Jirásek

2021

Journal of Outdoor and Environmental Education

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Positive masculinity in the outdoors: applying a systems lens to evaluate an adolescent outdoor education program

Cited by 5 publications

References 53 publications

Men's Perspectives on Gender Relations in the Outdoor Education Field: Furthering the Case for a Hybrid Masculinity

Men's Perspectives on Gender Relations in the Outdoor Education Field: Furthering the Case for a Hybrid Masculinity

The Making of Men Program: A Mixed-Methods Evaluation of a Gender-Sensitive Rite of Passage Program for Adolescent Males

Outdoor education and becoming-man

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