Edith Cowan University, Research Online, Perth, Western Australia
Abstract
This study was based on the belief that the dynamics of personal relationships is the basis of social life and personal well-being. There is growing support in the literature however suggesting that the gap between men\u27s family relationship functioning, and their ideals of how life ought to be is widening. The purpose of this research therefore was to explore through men\u27s own experiences what their perception of a \u27good\u27 family is, and how this understanding shapes their roles and functioning within their family. Using the three concepts of family as a symbolic structure of meaning, masculinity and cognition, as the theoretical framework to guide the study, four men participated in unstructured interviews. Results were analysed utilising the symbolic interaction perspective incorporating Kelley\u27s Personal Construct theory and Goldstein\u27s Cognitive-Humanistic approach. Findings highlight the implications for working with men in the human services and the inadequacies of current deficit approaches. A recommendation for development of improved conceptual models based on empowerment and strength perspectives is suggested if meeting men\u27s needs and improving their relationships within their families is to be realised
