Mentoring Experiences of Male Faculty in Nursing Programs

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study was to examine the mentoring experiences of male faculty in nursing programs.

Background: Recruiting and retaining male nursing faculty is important to achieve a workforce that reflects the diversity of society. Mentoring is one way to help recruit and retain male nursing faculty.

Method: Ten male nursing faculty in academia comprised the sample for this qualitative, descriptive study.

Results: Reflection on the mentoring male nursing faculty received for career and psychosocial development revealed the following themes: early supporters, figuring it out, making connections, paying it forward, and the role of gender. Facilitators and barriers to mentoring experiences are described.

Conclusion: Results of this study may be used to support investment in mentoring programs to recruit and retain male nursing faculty in academia and promote a diverse nursing workforce.