Week 11 - Sex, Gender, Sexuality, And Mental Health Flashcards
Why do sex/gender differences exist between mental health disorders?
Biological Sex Differences
Environmental Factors
Underreporting
Help-Seeking Behaviour/Masculinity
How can sex differences be explained from a biological approach
- Differences in structure/function of brain
-HPA Axis Function (Cortisol released from adrenal gland)
Women in follicular stage/ taking oral contraception have less free cortisol response
How can oestrogen’s protective role explain sex differences in mental health?
- Oestrogen plays a protective role against psychosis
- Menopause = more risk
- Schizophrenia more severe in males
How can environmental factors explain sex differences in mental health?
- Violence against women (WHO) reported 35% violence worldwide
- Social Factors: Including childhood abuse, low education, subordinate status
- Men more likely to perpetuate violence with alcohol use
How can family stress explain sex differences in mental health
Women are given multiple roles = more stress
How can gender roles and societal expectations explain men’s mental health?
- Less likely to seek help (underreported vs less prevalence)
- Traditional masculinity encouraged masking of feelings
How can sex-sensitive psychiatry be used to minimise sex differences in mental health?
- Tailored medication during menstrual cycle
- Different pharmokinetics between genders (more drug absorption with oestrogen)
- Additional measures in pregnancy
How can sexuality affect mental health?
- Higher likelihood
- Gay men = 6x more likely to attempt
- Transgender individuals have higher levels of depression and anxiety
How can the minority stress model explain the effect of sexuality on mental health?
- Core stressor = Anti-LGBT violence + discrimination
- Identity source of strength when associates with affiliation/support/coping
- Concealment vs disclosure and internalised homophobia
