Notions of Masculinities and Their Influence on Young Male Suicide

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Globally, there is a growing trend; some may even suggest an epidemic of youth suicide. However, it is more notable to mention, it is an increase in young male suicide compared to all other suicide that is troublesome. Over the past 30 years in Australia, suicide rates for the male age range of 15-24 years old has steadily increased and now accounts for 20% of one in five of all deaths in this age range. (Australian Government, 2007). However, Australia isn’t alone in this trend, youth suicide is among the first to third leading killer of young people, especially males, in the United States, Canada, New Zealand and many Western European countries (Gruber, 2001) Additionally, suicide is the second largest killer for the age group of 10-24 year old males worldwide (World Health Organisation, 2014). Although there are many factors that contribute to this growing trend such as, socio-economic status, location, race and culture, this paper will explore the affects that socially constructed ideas of masculinity have on the well-being of both children and adults (Courtenay, 2000). This paper will make reference to the historical, political and social construction of masculinities and include references to the local, national and global response to the growing trend of male youth suicide. Furthermore, a critical reflection will be provided that includes the understandings of the construction of masculinities, a recount of the research process and a discussion of new understandings about masculinities and what it is to be a global citizen. Finally, this paper will provide a lesson plan which reflects understandings of civics and citizenship with a specific focus on the area that has been researched throughout this essay, in the attempt to ...

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Shuster, C., (2000). Emotions Count: Scaffolding Children’s Representations of Themselves and Their Feelings to Develop Emotional Intelligence. Retrieved April 2014 from: http://ecap.crc.illinois.edu/pubs/katzsym/shuster.pdf

United Nations, (1990). United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. New York, USA. United Nations General Assembly

World Health Organisation, (2014). Mental Health: Suicide Prevention (SUPRE). Retrieved April 2014 from: http://www.who.int/mental_health/prevention/suicide/suicideprevent/en/

Zambo, D. & Brozo, W., G. (2009). Bright Beginnings for Boys. Engaging Young Boys in Early Literacy. Newark, USA. International Reading Association Inc.

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