Helping men build better intimate partner relationships: Canadian provider perspectives

Objective: The aim of this study was to describe the strategies used by Canadian healthcare providers to assist men in strengthening their intimate partner relationships.Design: Qualitative research study.Method: Data were collected through semi-structured individual interviews. Using interpretive descriptive methods, secondary analysis inductively identified the strategies used by 10 Canadian-based healthcare providers. Participants comprised six counsellors, one registered psychologist, one associate certified coach, one father support supervisor and one programme facilitator.Result: Three thematic findings were developed: (1) equipping men with lifelong relationship skills; (2) knowing and transforming masculinities; and (3) understanding men's experiences using trauma-informed care approaches. Theme 1 stressed the importance of attentively listening for cues, establishing dialogue and expressing emotions to meet men's needs. Emphasised was the need to create safe spaces and respect men's disclosures about previous intimate partner experiences. Theme 2 highlighted the significance of knowing and transforming masculinities to promote pro-social values by identifying and mobilising men's strengths and assets. Providers explored attitudes about masculinity and created opportunities for men to model transformative approaches towards equitable relationships. Theme 3 emphasised the need to better understand men's trauma in order to situate and progress their intimate partner relationships. By acknowledging men's trauma, providers aimed to undo harmful patterns of emotional suppression and facilitate progress towards healing.Conclusion: This study identities strategies for working with men to promote emotional reflexivity, pro-social behaviour and help-seeking in intimate partner relationships.