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Gender and Psychological Well-Being

Author

Listed:
  • M. Pilar Matud

    (Department of Clinical Psychology, Psychobiology and Methodology, Universidad de La Laguna, 38207 La Laguna, Spain)

  • Marisela López-Curbelo

    (Department of Clinical Psychology, Psychobiology and Methodology, Universidad de La Laguna, 38207 La Laguna, Spain)

  • Demelza Fortes

    (Department of Clinical Psychology, Psychobiology and Methodology, Universidad de La Laguna, 38207 La Laguna, Spain)

Abstract

Background : Research has consistently reported gender differences in mental health, but studies on differences in psychological well-being between women and men have not yielded conclusive results. The aim of this study was to examine the relevance of gender to the psychological well-being of adult individuals. A cross-sectional study with a sample of 1700 men and 1700 women from the general Spanish population was conducted. Their ages ranged from 21 to 64 years, and they were assessed with Ryff’s Psychological Well-Being Scales and the Bem Sex Role Inventory. Results : Men scored higher than women in self-acceptance and autonomy, and women scored higher than men in personal growth and positive relations with others. The most relevant variable in the psychological well-being of both women and men was high masculinity. Other relevant variables in women’s well-being were high femininity, not having a manual occupation, not being homemakers, and professional occupation. Men´s well-being also was higher in professional men and in men with a skilled non-manual occupation, men with high femininity and men who were not single, divorced or widowed. Conclusions : Adherence to traditional gender roles is relevant to the psychological well-being of women and men, and women and men whose self-concept includes both masculine-instrumental and feminine-expressive characteristics have greater well-being.

Suggested Citation

  • M. Pilar Matud & Marisela López-Curbelo & Demelza Fortes, 2019. "Gender and Psychological Well-Being," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 16(19), pages 1-11, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:16:y:2019:i:19:p:3531-:d:269360
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    7. Beatriz Rodríguez-Roca & Ana Belén Subirón-Valera & Ángel Gasch-Gallén & Estela Calatayud & Isabel Gómez-Soria & Yolanda Marcén-Román, 2021. "Gender Self-Perception and Psychological Distress in Healthcare Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(20), pages 1-11, October.
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