Gender and age differences in reactions to disability among mobility impaired people

Abstract

Introduction: Previous studies suggest there might be gender and age differences in perceiving and expressing emotional reactions to disability but they provided controversial results and despite previous research there is lack of studies analyzing these differences. The aim of the study was to evaluate gender differences in reactions to disability among mobility impaired people. Methods: The study included 104 men and 171 women with mobility disabilities, aged beween 18 and 79. Individuals were divided into two groups of younger and older individuals. Reactions to disability were assessed using Reactions to Impairment and Disability Inventory, measuring five reactions: denial, depression, internalized anger, externalized hostility, acknowledgement and adjustment. Findings: Younger individuals reported greater externalized hostility, acknowledment and adjustment than older individuals. Younger men reported greater denial and greater aknowledment than younger women. Older women reported greater acknowledgement and adjustment than older men. Gender differences in other reactions among younger and older individuals were not significant. Conclusions: These findings suggest there are gender and age differences among mobility impaired people but future studies might provide more information why these differences do exist.