Date of Award
Fall 12-1-2012
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
Department
Gerontology Institute
First Advisor
Candace L. Kemp
Second Advisor
Mary M. Ball
Third Advisor
Elisabeth Burgess
Abstract
Women outnumber men in assisted living (AL). This gender imbalance promotes the feminization of AL settings and affects men’s social experiences, particularly their co-resident relationships. AL research connects peer relationships to resident well-being and suggests gender that influences co-resident interactions. Yet, few studies have specifically examined men’s social experiences in AL. This analysis aimed to: (1) learn how men experience co-resident relationships in AL; and (2) identify the factors shaping these peer relationships. The analysis utilized qualitative data collected from two AL settings. Data collection involved participant observation and informal and formal in-depth interviews. Analysis was informed by principles of Grounded Theory Method and shows high variability in men’s co-resident connections. A range of individual- and facility-level factors promoted or constrained relationship development. Gender remains pivotal in structuring men’s social engagements. Individual- and facility-level factors often intersected with gender and influenced men’s social lives. Ultimately, co-resident relationships are consequential for men in AL.
DOI
https://doi.org/10.57709/3229524
Recommended Citation
Paye, Yarkasah P., ""Men Don't Talk": Examining the Dynamics of Men's Co-resident Relationships in Assisted Living." Thesis, Georgia State University, 2012.
doi: https://doi.org/10.57709/3229524