Boys and Men Caucus
Mission Statement
The Boys and Men’s Caucus advocates for APA policies and initiatives that support the healthy psychological development of men and boys in ways that enhance well-being without disadvantaging women or other groups. We promote APA policy, research, and dialogue on masculinities, gender relations, and mental health to foster inclusive, evidence-based approaches that recognize the diverse experiences of boys and men while contributing to a more equitable and informed understanding of gender in psychology and society. This caucus seeks to broaden APA’s engagement with gender- related issues by ensuring that men’s experiences are fully considered in psychological research, policy, and practice.
Caucus Overview
The American Psychological Association has not adequately addressed the escalating mental health crisis among men and boys, whose mental health needs remain insufficiently addressed and whose engagement with psychological services remains disproportionately low. Males account for roughly 80% of all suicides, with a 2024 suicide rate that is nearly four times higher than that of females. Despite this profound public health need, many men delay or avoid seeking medical and mental health care because of stigma, gender- role expectations, and other barriers to help-seeking. Simultaneously, the field of psychology has experienced a substantial demographic shift characterized by a steadily declining proportion of male professionals entering the discipline. With male psychologists currently comprising just 28% of the field, there is a critical shortage of providers. We must also ensure that the health care system is prepared to respond in gender-sensitive ways to men who seek care. Taken together, these issues show how vital it is for the APA to acknowledge the need to establish systemic initiatives to reach this population.
Compounding this crisis is the alarming reality that psychologists currently receive almost no formal training regarding the psychology of men and masculinities. Without required graduate coursework focused on men’s unique psychological needs, socialization, and barriers to treatment, practitioners are left ill-equipped to effectively engage and treat male clients. The APA must take the lead in closing this educational gap. By instituting required graduate training on masculinity and men’s issues, the APA can equip future clinicians to provide supportive, evidence-based care to people of all genders, recognizing that effectively helping men ultimately benefits society as a whole.
In light of these systemic deficits, the formation of the APA Council of Representatives’ Boys and Men’s Caucus is a long overdue and necessary step to guide and to provide balance in the APA’s future initiatives. The Caucus is specifically designed to advocate for policies that support the healthy psychological development of men and boys in ways that enhance well-being without disadvantaging women or other groups. By ensuring that male experiences are fully integrated into psychological research, policy, and practice, the Caucus provides the organizational leadership needed to promote inclusive dialogue and foster a more equitable understanding of gender. Empowering this Caucus to spearhead educational reforms and required graduate training will allow the APA to fulfill its mandate of providing culturally competent, comprehensive mental health support to men and boys.
As the newest Council of Representatives Caucus, we invite anyone interested in learning about the psychology of boys, men, and masculinities to join us as we work to raise awareness and support initiatives intended to foster healthier boys and men.
For more information, contact info@division51.net
APA Caucuses
What are APA Caucuses?
APA Council of Representatives Caucuses are interest groups. They provide opportunities to meet Council members who share similar interests, learn more about APA Council, and take joint action.
Why Join Caucuses?
Joining caucuses offers great opportunities to:
• Network and connect: Meet council members with shared interests.
• Grow as a leader: Caucus leadership roles are manageable commitments, offering a pathway to more meaningful involvement in APA Council.
• Take action: Shape Council initiatives and support activities you care about.
Are Caucuses Part of APA?
While affiliated with the APA Council, caucuses operate independently. APA supports caucuses by organizing virtual meeting spaces, but each caucus is self-governed and self-supported. Some caucuses welcome only Council Representatives, while others are open to people beyond Council.
How Can I Get Involved?
1. Find your fit: Choose caucuses that align with your Council role and interests.
2. Attend meetings: Most caucuses meet at least twice a year, typically before Council meetings. Look for communications on the Council listserv or reach out to caucus leadership.
3. Volunteer: Leadership roles vary but are generally a low lift and valuable way to contribute.
What do Caucuses Do?
Each caucus directs its own activities to carry out its mission. Some caucuses may:
• Weigh in on Council business: Discuss items before Council, provide feedback to movers, co- sign onto business items to show support.
• Learn what is taking place at APA: Hear from staff and elected leaders on current APA work.
• Take action: Draft their own items and/or work on other efforts as a caucus.
• Weigh in on leadership: Endorse candidates for elected office, such as boards and committees.
How Can I Learn More About Caucuses?
1. Find your fit: Choose caucuses that align with your Council role and interests.
2. Attend meetings: Most caucuses meet at least twice a year, typically before Council meetings. Look for communications on the Council listserv or reach out to caucus leadership.
3. Volunteer: Leadership roles vary but are generally a low lift and valuable way to contribute.