Date of Award

Spring 7-1-1994

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)

Department

Psychology

First Advisor

Michael J. Murphy

Abstract

The literature on masculine gender role stress suggests that men who strongly endorse many of the popular male gender role attributes are at risk for a number of psychological and physiological problems. These problems include increased hostility, emotional numbing, poorer health behaviors and increased cardiovascular reactivity. The stereotyped male identity, and its problematic attributes, have also been a central focus of the new men's movement which has attempted to change these stereotypical ~ttitudes through such forums as the popular press, selfhelp groups and in specific men's group retreats. Much of the empirical evidence linking male gender role adherence and stress comes from research using the Masculine Gender Role Stress (MGRS) Scale developed by Eisler and Skidmore (1987). The present study used this scale to examine the effect of a particular men's group training program upon the reported level of masculine gender role stress. A group of men were assessed for their level of MGRS before and after an intensive men's group program (New Warrior Training Adventure) and they were compared to a waiting list control group. It was found that the men involved in New Warrior Training showed a decrease in MGRS following the training weekend, while the control group's scores underwent a significant increase. These results offer strong initial support for the hypothesis that New Warrior Training is an effective means for reducing the harmful effects of masculine gender role stress. Alternative explanations for the findings and the need for further research in this area are discussed.

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