MALE GENDER-ROLE CONFLICT - PSYCHOMETRIC ISSUES AND RELATIONS TO PSYCHOLOGICAL DISTRESS

Two distinct deficits in research On male gender role conflict are add ressed: (a) lack of psychometric information and (b) lack of research involving clinical samples. First, using 1,043 men across three sample s, the psychometric properties of the Gender Role Conflict Scale (GRCS ) were examined through confirmatory factor analyses, internal consist ency estimation, and construct validation. Next, using 130 male univer sity counseling center clients across two samples, the relation betwee n gender role conflict and psychological distress was examined. The GR CS demonstrated good internal consistency and was best modeled as 4 in tercorrelated factors, as originally proposed by J. M. O'Neil, B. Helm s, R. Gable, L. David, and 1,. Wrightsman (1986). Construct validity w as supported through correlations with attitudes about masculinity, fe ar of intimacy, and social desirability in expected directions. Howeve r reservations about the Conflicts Between Work and Family Relations s ubscale are noted. Male gender role conflict was significantly related to psychological distress, with the Restrictive Emotionality subscale being the best predictor of distress level. implications for mental h ealth practice and future research are discussed.