Male intolerance of depression: A review with implications for psychotherapy

Evidence for sex differences in the experience and expression of depression and in help-seeking behavior and depression coping responses is reviewed. The data support the proposition that depression for many men may be a private experience, unshared with others and possibly also hidden from others, that men attempt to alleviate or remove by their own efforts without external help. The thesis is presented with supporting evidence that men are intolerant of depression because the experience of depression is incompatible with the male sex role and masculine socialization. Evidence is also examined for the punishment of male expression of depression. Consequences of male intolerance of depression and, implications and recommendations for psychotherapy are discussed.