Depression und Männlichkeit: Krankheitstheorien und Bewältigung – Eine biografisch-narrative Studie

Abstract

In order to develop gender-sensitive services, there is a need to better understand coping among men with depression. The study aims to analyze the meaning of gender- and work-related roles for illness theories and coping among men with depression. Based on a latent class analysis of three types of masculinities, biographical interviews were conducted with men with depression (n = 12). Transcripts were analyzed using a hermeneutic-reconstructive approach that includes subjective constructions of meaning related to (1) illness theories, (2) coping and (3) help-seeking behavior. Whereas most interviewees reported the role of family-related career orientation as a cause of depression, results differ in terms of coping. While participants partly distanced themselves from external expectations, some tried to keep up their employability. Others perceived their depression as a chance as well as an opportunity to change harmful attitudes. Psychiatric services might consider different priorities referring to work and life and their impact on coping with depression among men.