Problem-Solving Appraisal, Gender Role Conflict, Help-Seeking Behavior, and Psychological Distress Among Men Who Are Homeless

Men who are homeless experience pervasive psychological stressors that diminish their capacity to cope and navigate life problems. Yet some of these men possess skills, self-perceptions, and attitudes that allow them to survive. This study examined the contribution of gender role conflict, attitudes toward seeking professional help, psychological distress, and problem-solving appraisal among 126 men who are homeless. The results suggest that participants who reported higher gender role conflict scores, especially around restricting emotions, also reported negative appraisals of their skills, attitudes, and confidence to solve problems. In addition, these same men reported higher levels of psychological distress and negative attitudes toward seeking professional counseling. Research and clinical implications are presented.