Gender differences in stigma surrounding depression

Depression

Psychological Disorders - Stigma Surrounding Depression

The purpose of this study is an exploration of whether stigma exist surrounding depression, and whether females are more likely to be stigmatized or categorized as having depression than males are of the same peer group. There is ample evidence in the literature and in previous studies of gender variation that more often than not stigmas and stereotyping are gender-specific (Miletich, 1995; Wehmeyer & Schwartz, 2001). There are many instances where non-educated consumers consider depression and other disorders including low self-esteem or anxiety commonplace among women rather than men; this may result in suppression of feeling in men who may need care (Miletich, 1995). Even on evaluating one's own feelings the researchers comment gender stereotyping is a subject of mass debate within the psychological arena, thus it is not surprising one may expect a stigma or stereotyping to exist when evaluating the prevalence of depression and stigma toward those with depression in the modern era.

Men who fail to seek medical attention because of their fear of stigmatization or ridicule may delay treatment, especially among men familiar with recent stigmatization, resulting in less favorable outcomes (Miletich, 1995, Maag, Behrens & Digangi, 1992).

For purposes of this study stigma may be defined as an individual or group reaction toward members of other groups that one may describe as deviant or result in considering other parties of "marginal status" (Katz, 1981:1). Throughout history researchers have acknowledged the stigma associated with having a mental disorder, whether that disorder is depression, anxiety or some other significant mental health disorder requiring treatment (Katz, 1981; MacMillan, et al. 1996). There are many reasons for this, including society's fear of mental health and fear that someone with a mental health condition may or may not be capable of interacting with "normal" members of society (Katz, 1981).

Other studies have noted the differences in perceptions among females vs. males regardless of whether mental health is considered a factor (Grossman & Grossman, 1994). For purposes of this study the researchers assume the position that it is more commonly accepted among laypeople for women to express emotion and depression than it is for men. The same holds true of individuals seeking treatment for their conditions, with women more likely to feel received warmly when they seek care (Mason, et al., 2001).

This study helps fill the gap in current research by identifying which genders are more likely to be stereotyped when the subject of depression is considered. The participants involved in the study explore the nature of the problem and the gender of the person involved in the problem. Results of the study suggest stigma or stereotyping is prevalent among individuals unfamiliar with psychological typing. This generally includes lay people or individuals not trained in mental or social healthcare (Mason, et al. 2001).

Hypothesis

The researcher hypothesis that Connor will be rated as more depressed or having a bigger problem among non-psych majors, and they will be less likely to encourage Connor to seek help. This results from feelings of discomfort discussing depression with males. The researcher additionally hypothesizes that non-psych majors will perceive Connor as having more control over his condition than might a female.

Method

100 surveys handed out as follows: 25 to non-psych majors (female scenario); 25 to non-psych majors (male scenario); 25 psych majors (female scenario); 25 psych majors (male scenario). The independent variable explored is gender; other independent variables include non-psych and psych majors. The dependent variable explored is depression level. Other dependent variables worthy of exploration may include self-esteem, anxiety or perceived anxiety and the existence or lack of social phobias. This approach will allow a qualitative analysis of the empirical data presented for more accurate results (Keppel, 1982; Reber, 1985).

Findings

The results of the study suggest as have previous studies (Maag, Behrens & Digangi, 1992; Miletich, 1995) that there is a stigma associated with depression. The preliminary results of this study suggest among non-educated consumers, men are more likely to be stigmatized and subsequently repress their feelings than are females diagnosed with depression.