William Barlow Elder participated
in research “The Centerfold Syndrome” as outlined by Gary Brooks over a decade
ago. A detailed model emerged that depicted the behaviors and attitudes
participants experienced as part of the heterosexual male script.
Additionally, men discussed the situations that caused them to consider
change and reconstruction of these schemas. The resulting model was designed to
encourage clinicians to consider gendered context in pursuing treatment that
produces the most benefit and the least harm to male clients who present in
conflict.
As he has moved
forward to the next phase, looking at gay and bisexual men, he is undertaking
an even more complex process of not only looking at gay and bisexual men’s
sexual self-schemas and relationships, but also integrating the findings to
contribute to the larger literature on men and masculinity. It promises to be a major contribution
to the literature and will provide important understanding to both
professionals and lay people about these issues.
Will BarlowElder is a consummate scientist-practitioner, his research will also contribute
to the psychotherapy literature. of his
commitment to social justice, his research is likely to be influential in
educating men about their own socialization in relationships and provide
important insights that will contribute to healthier relationship attitudes,
values, and behaviors on the part of men in our society.
