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Three men teachers, three countries and three responses to the physical contact dilemma
Article Number: SIS736405AI201222
20th December, 2022
Author(s):
Penni Cushman
Abstract:
The shortage of men teachers in primary schools is a global concern. As the demand for men
teachers expands, the reasons why men choose not to teach, also grows. In some countries a
media-fuelled fear of being accused of sexual abuse, and resultant policies designed to protect
students and teachers, has deterred potential applicants and impacted on the freedom of men
teachers to engage with students in gender-neutral, nurturing ways. At the same time as men
are feeling compelled to act in keeping with traditional masculinities, gender equity policies
are directing schools to challenge damaging stereotypes and encourage diversity in life
choices. This paper investigates how three men in three countries – England, Sweden and
New Zealand – have responded to these conflicting messages and how they have modified
their physical contact in light of perceived risks. Although the size of the study restricts the
validity of the findings, the paper highlights the complexity of factors that influence men
teachers, including cultural mores, and adds to the call for more intensive teacher education
around gender.