Current Projects
Kayla Mansour – Doctor of Philosophy of Psychology Candidate
Kayla is investigating the social worlds of adult men in early to mid adulthood. Minimal research exists that describes the social support networks of men during the normative age of transitioning to fatherhood and the associated implications. It is particularly unclear how the development and maintenance of peer networks and support impacts on the mental health and wellbeing of these men and the bidirectional relationship that may exist. Investigations into men’s loneliness is also scarce. An understanding of men’s loneliness and interpersonal connections may aid in identifying male-specific modifiable targets for preventative interventions.
Marlena Leslie - Doctor of Philosophy of Psychology Candidate
Marlena’s research explores the diversity in men’s help-seeking behaviours for mental health concerns, with a particular focus on whether becoming a father influences this behaviour. Despite growing awareness of men’s mental health needs, little is known about their preferences, particularly who they prefer to seek help from and what type of help they prefer to receive, and how these preferences differ between fathers and non-fathers. Additionally, how factors specific to fatherhood may facilitate this behaviour is not well-understood. By gaining a deeper understanding of men’s motivations and preferences of help-seeking, her research may inform the development of mental health services and interventions that are more relevant, appealing, and preferred by men, especially those navigating fatherhood.