Sexual dysfunction and the preservation of manhood: Experiences of men with prostate cancer

KD Fergus, RE Gray, MI Fitch - Journal of health psychology, 2002 - journals.sagepub.com
KD Fergus, RE Gray, MI Fitch
Journal of health psychology, 2002journals.sagepub.com
This study explored the experiences of men living with sexual dysfunction as a consequence
of having been treated for prostate cancer. An ethnoculturally diverse sample of 18 men (14
heterosexual, and four homosexual) participated in a series of four to five in-depth
interviews. These one-on-one interviews were designed to elicit information pertaining to
their beliefs, values and performances regarding masculinity vis-a-vis prostate cancer and
its treatment. Interview transcripts were analyzed using the grounded theory method. The …
This study explored the experiences of men living with sexual dysfunction as a consequence of having been treated for prostate cancer. An ethnoculturally diverse sample of 18 men (14 heterosexual, and four homosexual) participated in a series of four to five in-depth interviews. These one-on-one interviews were designed to elicit information pertaining to their beliefs, values and performances regarding masculinity vis-a-vis prostate cancer and its treatment. Interview transcripts were analyzed using the grounded theory method. The core category of ‘Preserving Manhood’ incorporated five major themes: enhancing the odds; disrupting a core performance; baring an invisible stigma; effortful-mechanical sex; and working around the loss. We conclude that men’s performances of sexuality and masculinity were highly interwoven; that loss of sexual functioning constituted a focal disruption for participants; and in some instances, posed a significant threat to their masculine identities.
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