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Gender differences in coping: A further test of socialization and role constraint theories

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Abstract

To further test role constraint and socialization theories of gender differences in coping, two studies were conducted to examine coping strategies in individuals occupying similar roles. The relations between coping strategy frequency and effectiveness and between coping strategy use and psychological functioning also were examined. Predominantly Caucasian female and male college students participated in the studies. Results indicated support for both socialization and role constraint theories. Effectiveness and frequency of coping strategy use were moderately correlated. Gender differences in cognitive appraisal varied with dispositional vs. situational assessment. The need for a more integrated model to explain gender differences in coping and implications for existing theories are discussed.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. University of Maine, USA

    Sandra T. Sigmon

  2. University of Kansas, USA

    Annette L. Stanton & C. R. Snyder

Authors
  1. Sandra T. Sigmon
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  2. Annette L. Stanton
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  3. C. R. Snyder
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Additional information

The authors would like to thank Janice Zeman and the anonymous reviewers for their helpful comments on an earlier draft of this article.

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Sigmon, S.T., Stanton, A.L. & Snyder, C.R. Gender differences in coping: A further test of socialization and role constraint theories. Sex Roles 33, 565–587 (1995). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01547718

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