Gender and Stress

An increasing number of sex differences in neuroendocrine, autonomic, or behavioral responses to stress have been reported in the literature over the past several decades. Many studies used animal models to demonstrate hormonal and behavioral stress reactions, with the obvious advantage of being able to strictly control the type of stress administered and the previous history of stress experienced. Notwithstanding this advantage, studies have begun to examine gender differences in the human as well. The significance of gender differences in stress responses has become an important clinical issue given the number of pathologies associated with stressful life events. Ultimately, a better knowledge of the different strategies used by men and women to deal with stress and the influence of gonadal steroid hormones on these processes is important in the development of effective treatments for stress-related diseases.