Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 19, 2026
07:40
Validation of a Psychosocial Intervention on Body Image in Older People: An Experimental Design
Published on: May 31, 2021
4.4K
Gender differences in psychological distress in Spain
M Pilar Matud1, Juan M Bethencourt2, Ignacio Ibáñez2
1Department of Clinical Psychology, Psychobiology and Methodology, Faculty of Health Sciences, La Laguna University, La Laguna, Spain pmatud@ull.es.
The International Journal of Social Psychiatry
|December 24, 2014
Summary
Gender differences in psychological distress are linked to societal roles and time use. Women experience more distress, influenced by childcare and less leisure time, while men
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Public Health
Background:
- Consistent evidence of gender disparities in mental health outcomes.
- Psychological distress varies significantly between genders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate gender differences in psychological distress.
- Analyze the influence of stress, coping mechanisms, social support, and time allocation on distress.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study utilizing psychological tests.
- Sample: 1,337 men and 1,251 women (aged 18-65) from the Spanish general population.
- Controlled for age and educational level similarities between genders.
Main Results:
- Women reported higher levels of psychological distress than men.
- Common correlates of distress included higher stress, emotional coping, and lower social support for both genders.
- Gender-specific correlates: work dissatisfaction (men), childcare and reduced leisure (women), housework and less exercise (men).
Conclusions:
- Traditional gender roles and associated time-use patterns significantly contribute to observed gender differences in psychological distress.
- Societal expectations and time allocation are critical factors in understanding mental health disparities.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Socioemotional Experience and Gender Development
410
Social-emotional experiences and cultural influences play significant roles in shaping gender development. During middle childhood, from ages 6 to 11, peer groups become dominant in reinforcing gender norms. Children in this age group often align with same-gender peer groups, which actively encourage behaviors that conform to traditional gender roles. For instance, boys may be discouraged from engaging in activities perceived as feminine, reinforcing culturally dictated norms about masculinity...
410
01:27Panic Disorder
1.2K
Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent and sudden minutes-long episodes of intense fear, known as panic attacks. These attacks may feel like heart attacks and often happen without warning or a specific cause. They can include symptoms such as rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, chest pain, trembling, sweating, dizziness, and a sense of helplessness. During a panic attack, individuals may feel as though they are experiencing a heart attack or are in a...
1.2K
01:20Psychological Responses to Stress
943
Psychological responses to stress encompass the various cognitive and emotional reactions individuals experience when faced with challenging or threatening situations, such as a job loss. Prolonged exposure to stressors can disturb emotional balance, increasing negative emotions (e.g., anxiety and sadness) and diminishing positive emotions (e.g., joy and satisfaction). These persistent emotional shifts are associated with an increased risk of both physical illness and mental health issues, such...
943
02:45Self-Discrepancy Theory
19.1K
One influential perspective on what motivates people's behavior is detailed in Tory Higgin's self-discrepancy theory (Higgins, 1987). He proposed that people hold disagreeing internal representations of themselves that lead to different emotional states.
19.1K
01:28Anorexia Nervosa
2.1K
Anorexia nervosa is a complex and severe eating disorder characterized by an intense fear of weight gain, an unrelenting pursuit of thinness, and a distorted body image. It often leads to dangerously low body weight relative to an individual's age and height. This disorder is marked by significant physical and psychological consequences, making it one of the most life-threatening psychiatric illnesses.
Symptoms and Physical Effects
Individuals with anorexia nervosa commonly exhibit extreme...
Symptoms and Physical Effects
Individuals with anorexia nervosa commonly exhibit extreme...
2.1K
01:27Depressive Disorders: Etiology
885
Depressive disorders result from a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors, each contributing uniquely to the development and persistence of the condition. Understanding these factors provides critical insight into the multifaceted nature of depression.
Biological Factors in Depression
Biological predispositions significantly influence the risk of developing depressive disorders. Genetic studies highlight the role of variations in the serotonin transporter...
Biological Factors in Depression
Biological predispositions significantly influence the risk of developing depressive disorders. Genetic studies highlight the role of variations in the serotonin transporter...
885