Silencing the self and its relation to physical illness.
Published: 2006
Language: eng
Number of pages: 54
ISBN-13: 9780494163122
Subjects: Women -- Health and hygiene -- Sociological aspects.; Women -- Health and hygiene -- Psychological aspects.; Women -- Diseases -- Psychological aspects.; Women -- Diseases -- Social aspects.; Self-esteem in women.; Self-realization in women.; Expression.; Women -- Mental health.; Inhibition -- Health aspects.
Description: This paper pertains to the physical and psychological well being of women. The primary objective of this study was to investigate the health implications of women suppressing their needs, thoughts and feelings. In addition, depression and taking care of one's health were examined as possible mediators of this relationship. A community sample of 517 women completed a package of questionnaires measuring self-expression and health. The results indicated that women who self-silence are more likely to become ill. The relationship between silencing and illness was mediated by depression. Further, self health care mediated the relationship between two particular health indices: hospitalizations and self reported health. These findings underscore the importance for counselors to focus on three main tenets when working with women: building confidence that the woman's voice does matter, preventing depression through social support and promoting self-care and nurturance.
Notes: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 44-06, page: 3001.

Thesis (M.A.)--University of Toronto, 2006.

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