Gender Differences in Dynamic of Family Stress Indicators in Population Aged 25-64 Years from 1988 To 2017

Abstract

The aim: To determine gender differences in the dynamic of family stress indicators in an open population of 25-64 years over a long-term period - 29 years in Russia / Siberia (Novosibirsk). Methods: Within the framework of the screening in 1988-89 under the WHO MONICA-psychosocial program (n=1676, 49.5% males, mean age 44.1±0.4 years), in 2003-2005 under the international project HAPIEE (n=1650, 34.9% males, mean age 54.25±0.2 years), in 2013-2016 (n=975, 43.8% males, mean age 34.5±0,4 years) and 2016-2017 (n=663, 41.3% years 51.95±0.32 years) within the framework of the budgetary theme No. AAAA-A17-117112850280-2, random representative samples of men and women in one of districts in Novosibirsk were examined. Family stress indicators were assessed using the questionnaire “Knowledge and attitude towards own’s health”. Results: In 1988, men were 7% more likely than women to report serious illness or death of close relatives in the past year. By 2016-17, the share of such persons decreased to 20.1% of men and 28.1% of women. Women more often than men reported changes in marital status over the past 12 months in 1988: married, divorced, left family, widowed, had a child, etc. The frequency of these changes was higher in the younger age group. In 2013-2015, these changes occurred equally often in men and women but their share decreased subsequently. The difference in the perception of conflicts in the family is present among men and women aged 25-64. In 1988, men more often than women believed that there were no serious conflicts in the family, especially in the younger age groups. Gender gap towards family conflicts is reducing among older participants. The proportion of women who reported family conflicts dropped significantly in 2013-2016 and 2016-17. It has led to gender parity in the frequency of family disagreements. Men more often than women reported that “something disturbs their rest at dwelling “. By 2017, the proportion of such persons increased, reaching the maximum levels (80-90%) among men and women in certain age groups. Conclusions: Women are more likely than men to report changes in marital status and conflicts in the family. Men are more often than women dissatisfied with rest at home. Gender differences are diminished with age.