A Level Psychology OCR Practice Exam

Which gender is reported to be more depressed among employees?

1. Male employees

2. Female employees

3. Both equally

4. Neither

The correct answer is: Female employees

The choice indicating that female employees are reported to be more depressed is grounded in various psychological studies and surveys that highlight gender differences in the prevalence of depression. Research consistently shows that women are more likely to experience depression compared to men. Biological factors such as hormonal fluctuations, particularly related to menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause, along with psychosocial factors such as stress from balancing multiple roles – including work and family obligations – contribute to higher rates of depression among women. Moreover, societal expectations and gender roles can exacerbate stress and feelings of inadequacy in women, leading to a greater likelihood of developing depressive symptoms. In workplace environments, factors like workplace culture, discrimination, and work-life balance challenges may also disproportionately affect female employees, further contributing to their higher reported levels of depression. This understanding is critical for organizations aiming to support mental health, as it underscores the need for targeted interventions and support systems tailored to the unique challenges faced by female employees.