The Psychology of Gender 4th Edition

Mental Health 523

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.

M13_HELG0185_04_SE_C13.indd 523 6/21/11 12:55 PM