Exploring Positive Masculinity: Navigating the Challenges and Finding Middle Ground (feat. Matt Englar-Carlson Ph.D.) by @Travis Goodman, LMFT

Exploring Positive Masculinity: Navigating the Challenges and Finding Middle Ground (feat. Matt Englar-Carlson Ph.D.)

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6 months ago

In episode 80 of The Therapy4Dads Podcast, we welcome guest Matt Englar-Carlson Ph.D. to discuss the topic of masculinities. Matt shares his personal experience of isolation as a parent and emphasizes the importance of opening up about parenting struggles to create a sense of inclusiveness among fathers. The conversation dives into the lack of male inclusion in the parenting process and the societal pressures men face to conform to certain expectations of masculinity.

Matt Englar-Carlson is a renowned expert in the field of psychology, with a specific focus on the psychology of meta-masculinities. Over the past 25 years, he has dedicated his career to helping allied professionals understand the best approaches to support boys and men. These professionals include psychologists, therapists, counselors, social workers, teachers, nurses, administrators, and even parents. Matt's initial interest was centered around how men access support, but his work has since evolved to encompass a broader understanding of masculinity. With a genuine passion for his field, Matt continues to make significant contributions to the understanding and betterment of men's mental health.

The three key topics covered in this episode are:

1. Positive Masculinity: Matt and Travis explore the concept of positive masculinity, highlighting the need for men to challenge societal expectations and find a middle ground that aligns with their authentic selves. They discuss the importance of men healing from their own trauma and stories in order to become positive role models for their children.

2. Men's Mental Health and Therapy: The conversation touches on the stigma surrounding men's expression of emotions and the hesitancy some men may feel in seeking therapy. They explore strategies for therapists to engage male clients in therapy, such as normalizing their experiences and setting clear goals for sessions.

3. Fatherhood and Adaptability: The discussion addresses the evolving role of fathers and the challenges they face in balancing work, family responsibilities, and maintaining social support networks. They emphasize the importance of men nurturing relationships and finding a sense of purpose in order to adapt to changing circumstances.

Overall, this episode highlights the need to redefine and promote positive aspects of masculinity, the importance of men's mental health and therapy, and the challenges and opportunities of fatherhood in today's society.