Journal of Health and Behavioral Science

The Psychological Experiences of Male Survivors of Sexual Violence

Melvin Takoy — 2026-03-31

Sexual violence against men remains underdiscussed and is often marginalized due to prevailing masculinity stigma. This study aims to explore the psychological experiences of male survivors of sexual violence in Kupang City, East Nusa Tenggara. The research employed a qualitative approach using the photovoice method for data collection, involving five male survivors of sexual violence. Thematic analysis identified four main themes. First, the forms of sexual violence experienced included conventional violence (physical, verbal, and non-verbal) as well as digital sexual violence. Second, survivors experienced revictimization through masculinity stigma and barriers to seeking help. Third, survivors’ psychological responses emerged spontaneously across cognitive, affective, and conative domains. Fourth, survivors developed psychological capital in the form of self-efficacy, optimism, and resilience. This study highlights that the psychological experiences of male survivors are complex and shaped by gender norms and social contexts, thus requiring inclusive and gender-sensitive approaches.

Optimism of Women with Belis

Syawalia Nenak — 2026-03-31

Marriage practices rooted in local cultural traditions often shape women’s psychological experiences and well-being. In the Nagekeo community, the ‘belis’ tradition not only represents social respect and cultural identity but also presents social, economic, and emotional challenges for women within marital life. This study aims to identify the factors that influence women's optimism with belis in Nagekeo, using a descriptive qualitative method with 7 participants. Data were collected through interviews and thematic analysis. The results found four main themes that shape women's optimism: (1) social support, including support from husbands, children, immediate family, and the social environment; (2) self-esteem that arises from social appreciation and acceptance after the belis process; (3) self-confidence through involvement in decision-making, adaptability, and self-control; (4) accumulated experience, including readiness for marriage and spiritual conviction. These findings show that women's optimism is shaped by mutually reinforcing factors that help them persevere and view marriage positively.

The Effect of Work-Life Balance on Psychological Well-Being of Working Women at Regional Public Hospital

Arlind Angelica Jozana Makandolu — 2026-05-18

Soe Regional Public Hospital, the main referral hospital in South Central Timor Regency, faces a high workload along with limited family-friendly policies and psychosocial support. These conditions affect working women who perform dual roles, potentially influencing their psychological well-being. This study aimed to examine the effect of work–life balance on the psychological well-being of women at Soe Regional Public Hospital. A quantitative approach with simple regression analysis was applied to 60 married women aged 21–40 years using total sampling. Data were collected using work–life balance (Greenhaus et al., 2003) and psychological well-being scales (Ryff et al., 2004), and analyzed with SPSS. Results showed moderate work–life balance and fairly good psychological well-being. Regression analysis indicated a positive and significant effect (p < 0.05), with a contribution of 44.2%, while 55.8% was influenced by other factors.