”Äh, du var ju inte karl nog att ordna det här” - En kvalitativ studie av stöd och hjälp inom det svenska veteranarbetet samt om könsrollers möjliga inverkan på veteraners vilja att söka hjälp efter hemkomsten

Sammanfattning: The main focus of this paper is to shed light on an area of research that is relatively new in the Swedish context. A part of the purpose of this study is based on wanting to understand and study why the Swedish veterans who are in need of help and support after coming back home from doing service abroad is not given the appropriate form of help, or alternatively, seeking out the help that is available. In addition to this, the aim is also so look at gender roles and how they can affect the veterans’ unwillingness to seek help. The study’s theoretical perspectives are based on theories about gender and masculinity. This paper is conducted using a qualitative textual analysis of laws, policy documents and quotes from veterans. The result of the study shows that the Swedish Armed Forces do have a statutory responsibility to help veterans in need of support, but that the approaches and procedures are in need of development. This study has also shown that stereotyped gender roles and the hegemonic masculinity had a clear impact on veterans' unwillingness to seek help.