Male nurses in Singapore : a case study in understanding masculinity

Abstract

This Graduation Project examines male nurses and the construction of their masculinity. In particular, I explore how male nurses “do” gender (West and Zimmerman 1987). How they construct, negotiate and maintain their masculinity. My findings show that male nurses’ masculinity is shaped by institutionalized practices such as difference in dress code, horizontal sex segregation and the distribution of manpower and informal practices such as perceived bias in performance evaluation as well as role encapsulation. Also, several patterns emerge in the way male nurses defend their masculinity from public questioning. This study then concludes with several policy recommendations to attract and retain main nurses as well as ideas for further research.