The Role of Heteronormativity on Gender Differences in the Expression of Mental Health Problems

• In Event: 145 - Regular Session. Mental Health: Social Antecedents

Abstract

Population health studies show that women are more likely to report internalized mental health problems such as depression compared to men and men are more likely to report externalized mental health problems such as drug use compared women. Theories from the sociology of emotions suggest cultural explanations on gender differences in the expression of mental health problems. In this study, taking advantage of a large number of sexual minority women and men from the 2013 and 2014 National Health Interview Surveys, we take into consideration the moderating influence of sexual orientation on gender differences in the expression of mental health problems, specifically depression and smoking. Using regression methods, we had the expected findings that heterosexual women are more likely to report depression compared to heterosexual men and heterosexual men are more likely to report smoking compared to heterosexual women. But, we found no statistical support for gender differences in depression and smoking among sexual minority women and men. The findings suggest a consideration and the implications of heteronormativity on gender differences in the expression of mental health problems.

Authors

• Elbert P. Almazan, Central Michigan University

• Michael C. Craw, University of Arkansas at Little Rock