Gender Differences in the Associations Between Interpersonal Behaviors and Stress Generation

Research has demonstrated that females experience higher levels of stress than males, particularly stress that is generated by the individual. The current study examines whether gender moderates the impact of interpersonal behavior on stress generation, such that these behaviors are more strongly associated with stress in women as compared to men. Ninety-nine undergraduate students reported on their problematic interpersonal behaviors, and stressful life events they experienced over a six-week period. Self-reported problematic behavior of too caring was more strongly associated with stress generation in young women as compared to young men.