Exploring the effect of gender and culture on the relationship between self-silencing and depressive symptoms

Abstract

Objective: The self-silencing theory explains how cultural norms can expect women to maintain their relationships by silencing their self, which can restrict voice and power in relationships, thereby potentially leading to depression. However, the literature regarding gender differences in self-silencing is inconsistent. In this study, we aimed to investigate gender and cultural differences in self-silencing in an adult community sample. Method: Iranians residing in Australia (men n = 60, women n = 58) and European Australians (men n = 53, women n = 59) completed measures of self-silencing, depression and self-reported gender. Results: There were no cultural or gender differences in self-silencing. Aspects of self-silencing (i.e. greater levels of divided self, r =.33, p