Performing Strength

Racialized Masculinity in the Lived Experiences of Black Men at Risk of Suicide

Bibliographic Data

ID21748853
AuthorsLeslie B Adams (0000-0003-4956-271X, Stanford University, corresponding author), Aubrey DeVinney (0000-0003-0907-3751, Johns Hopkins University), Dahlia Aljuboori (0009-0007-4717-957X, Johns Hopkins University), Savannah Bachman (Johns Hopkins University), Husain Lateef (0000-0002-3935-8718, Washington University in St. Louis), Aryamawit Habteyesus (Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA), Aryamawit Neway Habteyesus (Johns Hopkins University), Tiara C Willie (0000-0003-2848-7212, Johns Hopkins University)
Year2026
Volume20
Issue1
Pages15579883251408351-15579883251408351
Publication date2026-01-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueAmerican Journal of Men s Health (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1557-9883 • E-ISSN: 1557-9891
PublisherSAGE Publications (PUBLISHER • US)
DOI10.1177/15579883251408351
PMID41504469
OpenAlexW7119530323
LanguageEN
References cited37

Suicide rates among Black men in the United States have increased significantly in recent decades, yet limited research explores how intersecting systems of oppression contribute to this trend. This study examines how racial identity and gender norms intersect to shape suicide risk among Black men with lived experiences of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. We conducted semi-structured qualitative interviews with Black adult men ( n = 15) in Maryland who had a history of suicidal ideation or behavior from February 2022 to October 2023. Using thematic analysis and an intersectional framework, we explored how racialized masculinity, public and private regard, and cultural norms around emotional expression influence mental health and help-seeking. Participants described navigating a racialized ideal of masculinity that emphasized toughness, emotional suppression, and self-reliance. These expectations, compounded by systemic racism and internalized stigma, created barriers to vulnerability and support-seeking in moments of crisis. Racial identity, particularly public regard and centrality, shaped how men internalized and performed masculine roles. Many reported gender role stress resulting from the conflict between emotional needs and societal demands, which contributed to isolation and elevated suicide risk. Our study results emphasize the importance of enacting gendered and culturally responsive approaches to suicide prevention efforts. These efforts should also acknowledge and mitigate the compounded effects of racial oppression and gender expectations

Intersectionality · Masculinity · Mental health · Oppression · Poison control · Public health · Racism · Suicidal ideation · Suicide prevention · Thematic analysis · Gender Roles and Identity Studies · Mental Health Treatment and Access · Suicide and Self-Harm Studies

Tools

Open DOIOpen Access