A Study on Gender Differences on Perceived Social Support and Psychological Distress among Males and Females

Even with more widespread international awareness of mental health, nonetheless, there has remained a continuing gender gap in reporting and experiencing emotional well-being. Men still report less subjective social support and more psychological distress than women. This research seeks to investigate these two most important variables—perceived social support and psychological distress—through the use of the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10) and the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS). This research seeks to determine to which lower perceived social support in men contributes to higher psychological distress while, concurrently, controlling for such social and cultural barriers to emotion expression in males. Based on research that finds social support has a buffering function against ill-health and stress, this study focuses on how internalized gender norms will make men silently endure, avoiding seeking help and expressing feelings. The results of this study are expected to confirm gender-sensitive mental health models as necessary. By invoking men's emotional isolation and increased distress, the research emphasizes the need for specific mental health interventions and policies that offer men safe spaces to be vulnerable without stigma. In addition, the study adds to the broader discussion of mental health equity by calling for the development of awareness campaigns and institution-based programs that affirm men's psychological experiences as well as enhance access to culturally responsive support systems. Briefly, the investigation strives to develop an impetus toward a shift in paradigm on educational research and public health policy to acknowledge and act on the specific mental problems of men.