title: Sexual dysfunction and the preservation of manhood: experiences of men with prostate cancer.
abstract: This study explored the experiences of men living with sexual dysfunction as a consequence of having been treated for prostate cancer. An ethnoculturally diverse sample of 18 men (14 heterosexual, and four homosexual) participated in a series of four to five in-depth interviews. These one-on-one interviews were designed to elicit information pertaining to their beliefs, values and performances regarding masculinity vis-a-vis prostate cancer and its treatment. Interview transcripts were analyzed using the grounded theory method. The core category of 'Preserving Manhood' incorporated five major themes: enhancing the odds; disrupting a core performance; baring an invisible stigma; effortful-mechanical sex; and working around the loss. We conclude that men's performances of sexuality and masculinity were highly interwoven; that loss of sexual functioning constituted a focal disruption for participants; and in some instances, posed a significant threat to their masculine identities.
authors: Toronto Sunnybrook Regional Cancer Centre, Canada. karen.fergus@tsrcc.on.ca.
authors: Karen D
authors: KD
authors: Fergus
authors: Ross E
authors: RE
authors: Gray
authors: Margaret I
authors: MI
authors: Fitch