Citation
Kort-Butler, Lisa A. (2009). Coping styles and sex differences in depressive symptoms and delinquent behavior.
Journal of Youth and Adolescence. vol. 38 (1) pp. 122-136
Abstract
Building on research that links gender to differences in well-being and differences in stress exposure and vulnerability, the current study examines how coping styles are gendered in ways that may contribute to sex differences in depressive symptoms and delinquent behavior. The study disaggregates stress measures to reflect gender differences in the experience of stress, examining whether avoidant, approach, and action coping condition the relationship between stress and well-being. Regression analyses were conducted using data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health. Results revealed sex differences and similarities. The interaction of avoidant coping and stress helped explain why girls had more depressive symptoms than boys, action coping increased delinquent behavior for girls, while approach coping decreased delinquent behavior for boys and girls. Assisting adolescents in developing coping styles that discourage avoiding problems or taking quick action, but that encourage problem-solving, can improve well-being, regardless of sex
URL
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10964-008-9291-xKeyword(s)
Depression
Reference Type
Journal Article
Journal Title
Journal of Youth and Adolescence
Author(s)
Kort-Butler, Lisa A.
Year Published
2009
Volume Number
38
Issue Number
1
Pages
122-136
DOI
10.1007/s10964-008-9291-x
Reference ID
969