Experiences with masculinity among previously homeless male veterans in a permanent housing program: an interpretive phenomenological analysis

This was a study of formerly homeless Veteran men’s experiences with male relationships. The researcher used in-depth interviews with five Veteran men with serious mental illness, ages 45-65, who were participating in a peer support based program for mental illness and homelessness recovery. Using a specific analysis method that balances researcher assumptions with the core of participant experiences, five themes were identified within participants’ accounts. The first three themes Internalized Role Conflict i) internal conflict, Masculinity as a Barrier i) restricted emotions between men, ii) pride, iii) dominance, and iv) fear of other men, and Building Supportive Relationships between Men i) negotiating masculinity, and ii) balancing power in men’s relationships, were major aspects of these men’s experiences that shaped support. The final two themes were Experience Accepting Support i) de-shaming, ii) emotional relief, and iii) insight, and Experience Giving Support i) strengthen self by supporting other man, and ii) use personal experience to support other men. These two themes, within the context of the previous three, gave insight into the experience of seriously mentally ill Veterans recovering from homelessness. Implications for providers and programs are discussed. Areas for future research and how programs and providers might use these results are defined.