A recent study from the University of Southern California reveals a significant shift in how television portrays male characters dealing with mental health. The research, published in the *Journal of Health Communication*, analyzed depictions of male mental health in popular scripted television shows from 2016 to 2022. The findings suggest a move away from harmful stereotypes toward more nuanced and constructive representations, although some outdated tropes persist. This evolution reflects broader societal conversations about mental health and masculinity, with television serving as both a mirror and a shaper of cultural norms.
Researchers analyzed 32 popular television series, coding scenes for depictions of mental health struggles, coping mechanisms, and the reactions of other characters. The study found a notable increase in portrayals of male characters seeking professional help and engaging in supportive conversations with friends and family. This contrasts with earlier television, which often depicted mentally distressed men as violent, weak, or figures of ridicule. The study highlights shows like “Ted Lasso” and “This Is Us” as examples where male characters’ emotional vulnerabilities are central to their storylines and are met with empathy from those around them, fostering a more positive and realistic narrative around mental wellness.
Changing Character Archetypes and Narratives
The study documents a clear departure from one-dimensional character archetypes that have long dominated television. Historically, male characters suffering from mental health issues were often confined to narrow, stigmatizing roles. For instance, the “violent antagonist” trope frequently linked mental illness with criminality and danger, while the “stoic hero” archetype suppressed all emotional distress, presenting vulnerability as a character flaw. These portrayals contributed to a cultural landscape where men, and particularly young men, were discouraged from acknowledging their own mental health needs for fear of being perceived as weak or dangerous.
The analysis shows a significant shift towards more complex and realistic portrayals. Characters are now more frequently shown grappling with a range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), in ways that are integrated into their broader personal and professional lives. This move toward multifaceted portrayals allows for storytelling that explores the origins of mental health struggles, the process of seeking and receiving help, and the impact on relationships. By presenting these experiences as part of a character’s overall journey, television can help normalize mental health conversations and reduce the stigma that has long surrounded the topic.
The Rise of Prosocial Coping Mechanisms
From Isolation to Connection
A key finding of the research is the increased depiction of healthy, or prosocial, coping mechanisms. Whereas older shows often showed men dealing with stress through substance abuse, violence, or emotional suppression, contemporary narratives are more likely to feature characters reaching out for support. The study noted a marked increase in scenes depicting male characters in therapy, attending support groups, or having candid conversations about their feelings with loved ones. These portrayals provide viewers with a model for constructive help-seeking behavior, which can have a powerful real-world impact by demonstrating that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Impact of Positive Portrayals
The study suggests that these positive portrayals can play a crucial role in destigmatizing mental health care for men. When a beloved character on a popular television show seeks therapy, it can make the idea more accessible and acceptable to viewers who might otherwise be hesitant. The researchers point to the “Ted Lasso effect,” where the show’s open-hearted and emotionally intelligent protagonist has been widely praised for his positive depiction of a man dealing with anxiety and seeking professional help. This type of modeling is particularly important for younger audiences, who are often more influenced by media portrayals. By showing that vulnerability and emotional expression are compatible with modern masculinity, television can help foster a more supportive and understanding culture around male mental health.
Persistent Stereotypes and Remaining Challenges
Despite the progress, the USC study also identifies areas where television’s portrayal of male mental health remains problematic. The analysis found that while depictions of anxiety and depression have become more common and nuanced, portrayals of other conditions, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, are still rare and often fall back on outdated and harmful stereotypes. These conditions are frequently associated with violence and unpredictability, reinforcing negative public perceptions and contributing to the stigma faced by individuals living with these illnesses.
Furthermore, the study notes that the positive evolution in portrayals is not evenly distributed across all demographics. The nuanced and supportive depictions of mental health are more common among white, affluent, and educated male characters. Men of color and those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds are still more likely to be depicted in ways that conform to older, more damaging stereotypes. This disparity is significant because it can perpetuate health inequities, as viewers from underrepresented groups may not see their own experiences reflected in these more positive and empowering narratives. The researchers call for greater diversity in storytelling to ensure that more inclusive and realistic portrayals of mental health are available to all audiences.
Influence on Public Perception and Behavior
The connection between media portrayals and public attitudes toward mental health is well-documented. Research has consistently shown that media can shape how the public understands mental illness and influences the willingness of individuals to seek help. By presenting more accurate and empathetic stories about male mental health, television can challenge misinformation and reduce the prejudice that often surrounds these issues. This is particularly critical in the context of male suicide rates, which remain alarmingly high in many parts of the world. Positive media portrayals can contribute to a cultural shift that encourages men to seek help before they reach a crisis point.
The study concludes by emphasizing the responsibility of content creators to continue this positive trend. The authors recommend that writers and producers work with mental health professionals to ensure the accuracy and sensitivity of their portrayals. They also suggest that a wider range of mental health experiences should be depicted, moving beyond the more commonly understood conditions to include more complex and often misunderstood illnesses. By doing so, television can not only reflect the changing conversation around mental health but also actively contribute to creating a more informed, compassionate, and supportive society for men who are struggling with their mental well-being.