Design: Secondary analysis of data from a previous exploratory study examining gender-based barriers for male nursing students.

Sample: 111 male graduates of 90 different nursing programs in the USA. 38% of the men had graduated within the past ten years.

Method: Data were collected from a mailed survey. Non-parametric statistics were used for analysis.

Findings: 62% of the sample did not receive instruction on the appropriate use of touch. This percentage was statistically equal for both recent and distant graduates. 66% of the sample stated this issue is important. 34% of the sample expressed nervousness that they would be accused of sexual inappropriateness when providing intimate care as students. However, 45% of those who graduated in the past ten years felt this nervousness as students. 90% of the sample stated this issue is important. Of the 39 gender barriers examined in the original study, nervousness of false accusations was ranked the second most important barrier for men in nursing education. Qualitative comments provided by the sample reflected the frustration of men on these issues.

Conclusion: An unacceptable number of men do not receive instruction on appropriate touch, an educational deficit that has not changed over the years. With increased media attention on litigation of sexual harassment and abuse, male students are increasingly nervous of false accusations of sexual inappropriateness.

Implications: Educators have a responsibility to provide men with quality preparation for professional practice. Lack of attention to the issue of appropriate touch adds to the unique stress men experience as they negotiate gender bias within the nursing profession. Several strategies are provided to help reduce stress men experience regarding this topic.

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Back to 15th International Nursing Research Congress
Sigma Theta Tau International
July 22-24, 2004