Seminar

• 30pm - 5.30 pm
• 06 Armstrong Building
• Wednesday 16^thOctober

This research focuses on ageing men diagnosed with prostate cancer receiving androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), a form of chemical castration conducted to slow down tumour growth. The treatment suppresses testosterone production/effect that causes a spectrum of side effects that could have a negative effect on treated men’s sense of self, not being able to live up to traditional masculine norms and values. The research explored how anticipated ADT side effects could be countered and dealt with through physical activity. The aim was to analyse how participants experienced and embodied physical activity when participating in an exercise programme in relation to ageing, illness and masculinity. Data were collected through both focus and individual interviews with 10 men aged between 65 and 79. Theoretically, the study combined ideas about the habituated body with the notion of hegemonic masculinity, analysing processes of both ageing and ADT treatment as a form of precarious embodiment. The results showed that the medical suspension of testosterone impacted not only the men’s understanding of themselves as men but also how they approached their own bodies. Testosterone was discussed as a source of masculinity and masculine traits. The ageing ADT body, with growing breasts and a lack of libido, became a site of emasculation and bodily detachment. The men addressed this by displaying a stoic masculinity; instead of addressing the problem emotionally, they turned their attention and aspirations to having a capable body and being able to do physical work. The beginning of the programme evoked feelings of precarious bodies, whereas further along these feelings evolved into those of bodily remedy. Participation was seen as an opportunity to meet other men in the same situation and created a sense of fellowship.

Contact Chris Haywood, Media, Culture and Heritage, SACS,  chris.haywood@ncl.ac.uk for further details.

Last modified: Wed, 16 Oct 2024 10:20:48 BST