Self-silencing and depression in women : examining the role of social support as a moderator

Abstract

In almost all populations there is a significant sex difference in the rate of depression, with women being twice as likely to be depressed as compared to men (Bebbington, 1996; Kuehner, 2003) Numerous theories have been proposed in an attempt to explain this difference, with one such theory being Jack's (1991) Silencing the Self Theory which poses that, in adherence to the traditional female role, many women self-silence in an attempt to maintain their intimate relationships, which increases the risk of depression (Jack 1991). However, the relationship between self-silencing and depression is not necessarily direct thus suggesting that another variable, such as social support, may be moderating the relationship.