Gender Differences in Coping and Psychological Adaptation during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

This population-based study investigated gender differences in the use of coping strategies and their relationship to anxiety symptoms during the initial COVID-19 lockdown period in the United States. A national online survey was administered between 13 April 2020 and 8 June 2020. The study sample comprised 1673 respondents (66% women). Overall, 46% reported high levels of anxiety, and women experienced significantly (p < 0.001) higher levels of anxiety than men. Women were significantly (p < 0.05) more likely to use acceptance, self-distraction, positive reframing, and emotional support than men. Significant interactions between gender and coping strategies were also identified. Of note, women who reported high levels (+1SD) of acceptance and positive reframing had significantly lower levels of anxiety when they engaged in low levels (−1SD) of acceptance (t = −4.56, p < 0.001) and positive reframing (t = −3.95, p < 0.001). In contrast, men who engaged in high levels of active coping had significantly higher levels of anxiety when they had low levels of active coping (t = 3.38, p = 0.001). Overall, these findings extend our understanding of the nature of gender differences in stress responsivity during periods of high psychological distress and can inform the development of mental health interventions to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic and future infectious disease outbreaks.

Association Between Suboptimal Health Status and Health-Related Productivity Loss in Primary Healthcare Workers in China: a Cross-Sectional Survey

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Depression in healthcare workers during COVID-19 pandemic: results from Czech arm of HEROES Study

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Substance Use among Emerging Adults during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Review through the Lens of Sustainable Development Goals

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