5. Critically Think: What’s the culture of nursing through the eyes of a male nurse?
Editor's Notes
As we begin our team’s presentation, let’s think about two concepts: (1) culture & (2) homophobia in regards to the male nurse. Take the piece of paper provided and quickly write one word that you think of when I say: CULTURE. After you finish, hold your work up and look around and everyone’s thought when I said the word, CULTURE.
The dictionary defines culture as traditions, ethnicity, way of life, shared beliefs & values of a group. Now I’d like for you to think of the word: HOMOPHOBIA. Briefly, share your thoughts about the definition of homophobia.
The dictionary defines homophobia as irrational hatred of homosexuality. Let’s move a step further and think about homophobia and how it can relate to male nurses, the predominant gender in nursing, & how heterosexual men & gay men cope with homophobia stereotyping.
Harding (2007) finds that stereotyping male nurses as gay is quite common. As a result, this stereotyping subjects male nurses to homophobia in the workplace. Heterosexual men face unique challenges associated with stigma. The research findings state coping mechanisms in response to the stereotyping are avoiding contact with gay co-workers and exaggerated heterosexual expressions.
What challenges do you see the male nurse contending with in today’s society? How can we facilitate change from the negative towards the positive?
