Gender Differences in the Association Between Stress Trajectories and Depressive Symptoms Among Middle Aged and Older Adults in Taiwan

Abstract

Purpose: This study investigated the effects of gender differences on the association of chronic stress and depressive symptoms in middle-aged and older adults in Taiwan. Methods: The population base was of adults aged 50 and older in Taiwan. This study included 2,889 participants and examined the gender differences on the impacts of life stress that exhibited depressive symptoms. Results: Females were more susceptible to depressive symptoms when they felt constant stress from finances, increasing stress from jobs, and fluctuating stress from family relationships. Discussion: Gender differences were evident when assuming social roles, as were psychological susceptibilities.

Keywords:

• gender differences
• depressive symptoms
• stress

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The data was provided by the Population and Health Research Center, the Bureau of Health Promotion, Department of Health, Taiwan, Republic of China. The interpretation and conclusions contained herein do not represent those of the Bureau of Health Promotion. This study was funded by the Armed Forces Taichung General Hospital. None of the authors has a conflict of interest in any way.