Hegemonic masculinity refers to cultural beliefs and expectations regarding the masculine role, such as beliefs that men should be strong, self-reliant, and unemotional. Although these beliefs have been linked to avoidance of preventative health behaviors, we know of no studies exploring the ways masculinity shapes advance care planning (ACP). Using data from the Wisconsin Longitudinal Study, a long-term study of high school graduates from the class of 1957 and their siblings, we evaluate whether masculinity beliefs predict whether a man has a living will, durable power of attorney for health care (DPAHC), and has discussed his treatment preferences with care providers. We find that men who strongly endorse masculine beliefs are less like to do ACP, although these associations are partly accounted for by socioeconomic status and family structure. We discuss potential health disadvantages associated with beliefs in self-reliance and stoicism, and potential benefits of adherence to the “protector” role.
展开▼
