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negative side, characteristics of the traditional
male gender role, specifically independence
and self-control, are inconsistent with chronic
illness. People with a traditional masculine
orientation may find it difficult to depend on
lost the business or suffered the loss of physical
functioning caused by the second heart attack.
The traditional male gender role may be
an advantage or a disadvantage in adjusting
to chronic illness (see Figure 13.11). On the
Male Gender Role
- Threat to independence
- Threat to breadwinner role
- Loss of physical strength
- Threat to control
- Difficulties with emotional
expression
Female Gender Role
Negative Effects
Negative Effects
Positive Effects
Positive Effects
- Threat to caregiver
role - Adverse effects on
appearance
Problem-focused
coping
- Distress
- Poor health behavior
- Noncompliance
- Failure to seek help
Good health
behavior
- Poor health
behavior - Distress
- Acceptance
- Help-seeking
behavior - Support available
FIGURE 13.11 Implications of Gender Roles for Adjustment to Chronic Illness.
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