Stress and Gender

Do men and women react differenly to stress?

1) Biological approach

2)Social explanations

3)cognitive explanations

1.Biological approach

Oxytocin. Taylor et al, 2000

Oxytocin-Hormone secreated by men and women in responce to stress.

Higher levels-> Calmer, less anxious, more relaxed, more social.

Effect reduced by male hormones

Oxytocin-maternal behaviour and affiliaction. Why women seek support of others. 'tend and befriend'

1.Biological approach

Oestrogen.Hastrup, 1980

Women showed lower stress responces when oestrogen being released.
E.G-days 11-24 of menstrul cycle.

2.Social Explanations

Males: Less social support; more unhealthy habits; more stressful occupations->more cardiovascular problems.

Carroll, 1992
Women. make more use of social support networks

Carroll, 1992
Women smoke and drink less (this is currently changing)

Women in non-traditional roles
E.g- Lawyer, bus driver-->Higher neuroendocrine levels than women in traditional roles.
Men and women likely to become more simular over time as roles changing

3.Cognitive Explanations

Male and female differ in way they handle (or think about social conflict situations

Vogele, 1997
Females: Learn to suppress anger, so show low reactivity in stress situations.

Males:Males havent learnt this, and when they have to suppress anger-their blood pressure rises/increases.