Grant: Travel Awards - Institute Community Support

Persistence of vision refers to the optical illusion in film whereby distinct images blend in the human mind to create a single moving image. In the same vein, multiple frameworks for masculinities may be perceived to coalesce and collapse into one dominant discourse on how to 'be a man'. This presentation shares findings from a collaborative inquiry study, which explores connections between social context and mental health among young men from migrant backgrounds. Drawing on the concept of social context and informed by an intersectional lens, there is a focus on the ways in which everyday experiences related to mental health and emotional distress are shaped by racialization, migration policies and representations of masculinities. Based in a western Canadian urban area, the project is guided by an advisory group, comprised of service providers and community leaders in the area who work with young people; and by six young men (ages 15-21), from migrant backgrounds, who served as research collaborators during data collection, analysis and knowledge dissemination. Data collection methods included fieldwork, informal and formal in-depth interviews, and 'go-along' interview methods. Interviews were audiotaped and transcribed verbatim. The research collaborators provided guidance on sampling and recruitment strategies, interview questions, data interpretation and led the design and production of a short film based on the narratives of 30 young men who took part in in-depth one-on-one and/or group interviews. Data analysis is inspired by narrative analysis methods and informed by theories of social context, subjectivities, gender relations and masculinities. This presentation shares findings from the study, considers implications for generating inclusive dialogue around youth mental health and shines a light on the everyday experiences of young men against the backdrop of dominant representations of masculinities, migrants and mental health in contemporary Canada.