Exploring Black male experiences of communicating psychological difficulties in Urban London: A Thematic Analysis
What is the research?
There is substantial evidence that shows Black men are disproportionately represented in the criminal justice systems, mental health institutions and prisons. Black men are 17 times more likely to be diagnosed with severe or complex mental health needs compared to their White counterparts. However, despite their vulnerability, Black men are the least likely to seek help or openly speak about their mental health difficulties. This devastatingly contributes to the wider social, cultural, historical and systemic issues facing the Black community. Therefore, it would be valuable to get an understanding of Black men’s lived experiences through their lens in order to address the disparities they experience.
This study will interview adult Black heterosexual cis-gender men who are willing to have a conversation about their lived experiences of psychological difficulties, and more specifically, exploring the concept of communicating their psychological difficulties; how it impacted them and how they made sense of it.
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This research has been approved by the School of Psychology Research Ethics Committee. This means that the Committee’s evaluation of this ethics application has been guided by the standards of research ethics set by the British Psychological Society.
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Who can take part?
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Inclusion criteria
You can participate in this research if the following apply to you:
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You are an adult aged 18 or over
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You identify as a cis-gender heterosexual Black male (this includes Black African, Black Caribbean, Black other, Mixed-ethnicity or multiracial, or considered racially ambiguous)
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You live in London, UK
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You ARE NOT a current or former mental health service user
Exclusion criteria
Participants who are any of the following are unable to participate in this study:
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CURRENT or FORMER mental health service users;
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Currently experiencing severe mental health difficulties;
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Self-harming and/or suicidal
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What does taking part involve?
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The study will involve a 1:1 face-to-face or video call interview with myself which will be completely confidential. The interview could last 60-90 minutes (depending on the depth of the conversation) at a time and location that is most convenient to you.
Participation is completely voluntary, and your input will be greatly appreciated. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time before the commencement of the data analysis. You are not obligated to give a reason to withdraw.
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What if I have a concern?
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If you have any concerns or questions about this study, you can contact the lead researcher or their research supervisors directly:
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Florencia Mensah Gysbertha (Lead Researcher)
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Professor Cynthia Fu (Director of Studies)
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Dr Claire Marshall (Second Supervisor)
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Sign up to take part
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If you would like to participate in the study or have any questions about participation or the research, please contact Florencia Mensah Gysbertha (lead researcher) by email:
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