การรับรู้เกี่ยวกับโรคซึมเศร้าในกลุ่มนักศึกษา: ความแตกต่างระหว่างหญิงชาย Perception of Depressive disorders in college students: Difference male and female

Abstract

 A qualitative study was used. Key informants were 42 college students, 14 male and 28 female. Data were collected by focus group. Data were analyzed using content analysis. The study found out how male and female students perceived depression. 1) Female students perceived that depressive disorder was severe. Male students perceived that depression was a weakness. Accordingly, it is more difficult to notice signs and symptoms in males than females. 2) Perceptions of the causes of depression:  female students were concerned with romance; for male students not meeting life goals and family expectations were of concern. 3) Style of self care management: female students cried and wrote to vent feelings. Males drank alcohol to be brave enough to speak out on their problems. 4) Expectations and help seeking when depressed: friends were the first source of consultations for male and female students.

Socialization of men’s and women’s gender roles influences perceptions, expression and self care management of depression in adolescents. Thai social values state that men are to be strong endured, not show any weakness, not cry, drink to relax and acceptance; as a result men delay accessing services.