Posted by ElaineM on June 27, 2006, at 12:51:53
In reply to Re: Gender and preferred therapy » llrrrpp, posted by bent on June 27, 2006, at 12:10:47
From my soc. classes at school, I think the stats said that more men tend to have externalizing symptoms, while women have internalizing ones. And externalizing ones are more likely to first be treated with medication. From what I read (and this was only from one textbook, so I could be way off-base), mental illness in males is more often approached using the medical model, and females, the psychological one.
I also vaguely remember it saying stuff that did point to the importence of the cultural expectations of each gender. That it is more acceptable for women to show emotions, share emotions, and focus on interpersonal relations - pointing to the talking solution. And men tend to be socialized to value independence, control and quick solutions. (Sorry if this is generalizing - not meant to offend)
However, I think that is changing. The last time I was in ED treatment there were three men, which was a big deal. They often said that they didn't mind being among female patients and professionals, but that it was enlightening. I guess it does come down to personal preference and how much you'd feel someone of the opposite gender could relate to your problems. I know when I feel like I'm a freak-show outcast, all I'm ever hoping for is that someone will share some small commonality with me, (always wishing to be more than one - part of something more than me) and when I'm that desperate I think that having the same gender is something at least. A small start. (that's just me - sometimes I don't think I ever really know what's motivating me to do one thing or another)
Interesting subject though. I was always too afraid to take part in lectures in school, and I enjoy reading of everyone's different thoughts. I'd like to be able to understand more.
EL
poster:ElaineM
thread:661713
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/psycho/20060623/msgs/661859.html