Sex differences in depressiogenic risk factors and coping strategies in a socially homogeneous group

Abstract

We examined for sex differences in possible risk factors for depression, manifestations of depression and associated help-seeking and coping styles in a socially homogeneous cohort without any sex difference in lifetime rates of depression. The sexes did not differ on measures of depression, dysfunctional attitudes, perception of important interpersonal relationships, experience or perceived impact of life events. Women scored more highly on measures of neuroticism, were more dependent and were more likely to engage in self-consoling behaviours and coping styles. Recklessness as a coping style was the only item endorsed more frequently by men, posing the question of whether current measures take into consideration the male experience of depression. The findings suggest that many putative depressiogenic risk factors over-represented in women do not, by themselves, create depression but require a triggering factor or certain social conditions for their expression.