Women are more likely to experience stress and worry while in college compared to men, according to experts. While the gender gap in reported stress levels exists, the exact reasons are still uncertain. However, several potential causes have been suggested.
One possible cause is the greater familial responsibilities that female students often bear. Women are more likely to be caregivers for older or sick relatives or children, leading to a phenomenon known as “role overload.” Balancing family responsibilities alongside academic and social obligations can contribute to higher levels of stress among women.
Sexism on college campuses is another factor that may contribute to increased stress levels among female students. Discrimination and the perception that women need to exceed expectations may lead to heightened stress. Instances of sexual harassment or assault can also contribute to higher stress levels for women pursuing their degrees.
Differences in coping mechanisms may also play a role. Women are more likely to utilize emotion-centered strategies like rumination, which can contribute to depression and anxiety. Men, on the other hand, may turn to substances like alcohol as a means of coping with stress. However, it should be noted that men drink more frequently and in larger quantities than women, although research suggests that women consume more alcohol when they do drink.
Furthermore, women are more likely to report and seek treatment for stress compared to men. Female students are more likely to share their troubles with others and seek out mental health services. In contrast, men may be hesitant to report distress and are less likely to seek help for their mental health. Traditional behavior norms associated with masculinity may discourage men from expressing their emotions and seeking support.
These gender differences in seeking treatment also extend to mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. Female undergraduates are more likely to be diagnosed and treated for these conditions compared to their male counterparts.
Overall, while the gender gap in reported stress levels among college students exists, the reasons for this disparity remain complex and multifaceted. Factors such as familial responsibilities, sexism, coping mechanisms, and help-seeking behaviors may all contribute to the higher stress levels experienced by women in college.