Cross-cultural differences in the relationship between conformity to masculine norms and health behaviour among men in Hong Kong

Abstract

Objective: Examine differences in the relationship between conformity to masculine norms and engagement in health behaviour among a cross-cultural sample of Hong Kong Chinese, mainland Chinese, Caucasian, and South Asian men living in Hong Kong. Design: Cross-sectional. Methods: A community sample of 495 Hong Kong Chinese (n = 161), mainland Chinese (n = 107), Caucasian (n = 122), and South Asian (n = 105) men enrolled in the study. Ages ranged from 18 to 81 years (M = 39.87). Participants completed self-report measures of conformity to masculine norms, health behaviour, social support, and job stress. Results: Younger age was predictive of greater engagement in health behaviour among all men. Stronger conformity to masculine norms was predictive of engagement with health behaviour among Hong Kong, mainland Chinese, and Caucasian men, but not South Asian men. Social support was negatively predictive of engagement in health behaviour among Hong Kong Chinese, mainland Chinese, and South Asian men, suggesting that greater levels of social support may hinder engagement in health behaviour in some men. Job stress had a negative impact on engagement with health behaviour among Hong Kong Chinese and South Asian men only. Conclusions: Present findings demonstrate the need for a broader examination of the relationship between masculinity and health behaviour, focusing not only on the negative, but also the positive impact that masculinity can have on men's health behaviour. Findings are discussed in terms of their implication on men's health and health promotion. Statement of contribution What is already known about this subject? Men around the globe have higher mortality and morbidity across all leading diseases. Explanations have focused on men's poor health-seeking behaviour and how this impedes on health. The pursuit of masculinity is thought to contribute to poor health outcomes in men. What does this study add? Conformity to masculine norms was predictive of engagement in health behaviour. This is one of few studies cross-culturally examining masculinity and health in a Chinese context. Findings provide examples of how conformity can support engagement in health behaviour.