PS276 Chapter 13: Sex Differences in and Treatment of Depression
Document Summary
Before adolescence, boys more likely to exhibit depressive symptoms. From early adolescence until very late in adulthood, twice as many females suffer from depression. Females somewhat more likely to report depressed mood. Genetic predisposition from parents more likely to be manifested among girls. Adolescent girls more susceptible to depressive feelings and is correlated w poor body image and being low in masculinity. Girls more likely to react to stress by turning feelings inward and boys distract themselves or turn feelings outward in aggression or drugs. Girls have greater tendency to co ruminate which contributes to greater risk for depression. Sex differences in levels of oxytocin encourages females to invest more in close relationships, thus making them more vulnerable to adverse consequences and inter personal difficulties. Suicide ideation: twice as many adolescents think about killing themselves than actually attempt. Ideation increases during early adolescence, peaks around age 15, and then declines. Suicide rate among 15-19 yr olds increased alarmingly between 1950-90.
