Masculine Gendered Space

Abstract

This paper draws on a programme of research examining the benefit of men’s sheds in the Australian context. Firstly, the author clears some contentious ground regarding women’s disadvantage and equality and acknowledges the position that has been made by feminists relating to the implications of unequal distribution of materials and resources and puts forward a case that uneven distribution of resources cannot only restrict many women but also some men. The author examines men’s health status in Australia and drawing from a programme of research discusses the link between men’s shed involvement and health and wellbeing benefits. The paper makes use of Sen’s Capabilities Approach to put forward the case that men’s sheds in the Australian context provide a space where enabling capabilities developed through meaningful activities can benefit men relating to health and wellbeing outcomes.