Masculinity, Hypochondriasis and Seafarers: Health-Related Help-Seeking Behaviour in Indian Male Seafarers

Abstract

In Western part of the world, the concept of hegemonic masculinity and its impact on men’s poor health-seeking behaviour and practices has been intensively examined. Previous studies suggest the hazardous working circumstances that seafarers experience have a significant negative impact on their health and lives. We have very little information on its applicability to Asians, notably Indians. Seafarers being a distinctive set of people, who live and work in conditions that are extremely harmful to their health. This study, therefore, catered to Indian male seafarers. The purpose of this study was to explore and analyze the correlation between Hypochondriasis and Masculinity. Results showed a weak positive correlation between Hypochondriasis and Masculinity. 300 male mariners age ranged between 20 and 65 years working in the Indian Maritime industry participated. The Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-II (MMPI-II) was administered on them and results of only two scales Hypochondriasis (Hs) and Masculinity- Femininity (Mf) were used for this study. The results support the hypothesis showing a weak positive correlation between the two variables. Further studies and discussion on how to overcome the barriers that prevent men from taking advantage of accessible healthcare services, as well as appropriate guidance on how to change men’s negative attitudes toward health care is needed.