*What*’*s In an Ideology and What Are the Consequences?: Rethinking Masculinity* Jessica Houser, Professor of Psychology at West Shore Community College, will look at the first-ever guidelines published in 2018 by the American Psychological Association (APA) for psychologists and others working with boys and men. During the pandemic, research revealed that working class men in America, from 25-55 years old have continued to die from suicide and harm from alcohol or drugs, also described as “deaths of despair,” at significantly greater rates than other Americans over the last several decades. While women are also dying from deaths of despair, men appear to be dying in greater numbers. Research indicates there are many factors leading to the deaths of despair among working class men, including lack of jobs and the resultant low or no income—and the toll this takes on pride and hope. But even when jobs have been available—those in the service sector—men either excluded themselves or were excluded from these jobs as they were deemed not appropriate for men. Houser will explore changing ideas about what it means to be a man. What is it about ideas of masculinity that prevent men from seeking work or being hired in the service sector? A focal point in looking at masculinity will be the 2018 APA guidelines developed to help boys and men lead healthier and happier lives. Houser will discuss the nature of the guidelines, including how the guidelines alter or strengthen earlier ideas about masculinity and about mental health for boys and men. Importantly, Houser will discuss criticism—both positive and negative—of the guidelines over the past 3 years. She will also note any changes made to the guidelines. House will consider with the audience whether the guidelines might lead men and society to healthier definitions of what it means to be a man. The final Truth & Politics event will take place March 21 - Communicating Across the Fence—or the Aisle, presented by Brian Harrison, visiting assistant professor of political science, Carleton College. The program begins at 7pm tonight, to simply join the Zoom presentation, go to mcdl.pub/sl-zoom. A recording will be available by Thursday morning. If you would like an emailed link to the recording, you can register at mcdl.pub/sl-register. -- Thomas Trahey Mason County District Library Head of Circulation 231-843-8465