“I Feel Like I'm Making a Good Difference to the World”: Interviews With Australian Men on Their Motivations to Become Vegan
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Australian vegan men face unique societal pressures, cultural norms and expectations of masculinity. Using a phenomenological approach, this semi-structured interview study explored the dietary motivations of 27 Australian vegan men. Thematic template analysis revealed three themes: (i)Head and Heart Decisions: From Initial Motives to Deepened Ethical Commitment-clarity of motives to initiate versus clarity of values to adhere to veganism, (ii) Bridging Worlds: The Influence of Vegan and Non-Vegan Social Circles-the importance of social connection in initiation of a vegan diet and (iii) Resolving Cognitive Dissonance: Making a Difference, Promoting Kindness and Aligning Values-the desire to align values to live a kinder life. Personal, ethical and social factors shape vegan men's dietary choices. These findings highlight opportunities for health promotion initiatives to support vegan men by fostering inclusive environments, addressing identity-related barriers, and promoting dietary choices that align with both personal values and holistic wellbeing.
DOI: 10.1002/hpja.70186
Language: English
Subfield: Ecology
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,150
Funder: Bond University
OpenAlex ID: W7154569482