At Relational Ground, Dominick explores how men’s health, relationships, and societal change intersect through stories, research, and global perspectives. This work examines how cultural norms and systemic barriers shape men’s experiences with reproductive health, family planning, and emotional well-being. From global fertility trends to fathers’ roles in sexual health and the NFL’s platform for men’s health, Relational Ground challenges outdated narratives and offers practical solutions. Its relational approach emphasizes connection—between partners, families, communities, and health systems—as a catalyst for stronger public health and healthier lives. Click the link to visit the Relational Ground Substack. Exemplary blogs are shared below.
Tying Up Lions
When spider webs unite, they can tie up a lion. Using this Ethiopian proverb as a guide, this article explores how resilience emerges through relationships rather than isolation. Drawing on research about ovarian cancer survivors, relational masculinity, and men's health, it argues that social connection, friendship, family, and community are essential sources of strength.
At a time when loneliness and disconnection affect many boys and men, the essay offers a relationship-centered perspective on resilience, wellbeing, and healthy masculinity.
Mapping Boys’ and Men’s Health Policy Activity Across the United States (2015–2026)
Over the past decade, states have introduced hundreds of policy actions focused on boys and men. This analysis maps more than 225 initiatives across all 50 states and asks a critical question: Are we building sustainable systems for boys' and men's health, or simply creating isolated programs?
Why Are Young, Childless Men Seeking Vasectomies?
Many young childless men are becoming more politically engaged because politics can provide identity, belonging, purpose, and community. As traditional sources of meaning such as marriage, fatherhood, religion, and civic organizations become less central for many people, political movements can offer a sense of connection and direction during periods of uncertainty and social change.
Interpersonal Curiosity as Relational Infrastructure
Loneliness is not simply the absence of contact; it is the absence of meaningful understanding. Research on interpersonal curiosity suggests that asking better questions—and following up—may be one of the most practical tools for strengthening male friendships.
One Visit, Many Opportunities: Multi-Behavior Interventions for Men’s Health Care
Men and boys often reach primary care late and focused on immediate problems. I argue that multi-behavior interventions for health care providers—supporting screening, advice, and referral in a single visit—are a critical, underused lever for improving men’s health outcomes.
Relational Masculinity in Public
Taken together, Talarico models a form of masculinity that is accountable rather than authoritarian, humble rather than domineering, and rooted in relationship rather than fear. What makes this posture especially relevant is not its theological specificity or political context, but its implications for men’s health and belonging.