Gender differences in managing chronic illness at work: Exploring predictors for disclosure

Abstract

This study explored possible gender differences in the self-management of chronic illness as predictors for self-disclosure to line managers. A survey, sent to participants at a university, found 461 women and 273 men reporting a chronic illness. Findings suggest that women reported more symptoms of their illness and were more likely to perceive receiving emotional support from others as being important in managing their illness. In contrast, men were more likely to have higher sickness absence and report their symptoms as being more frequent. Despite the difference in the experience of illness between the two genders, findings suggests that the importance of receiving emotional support from line managers is the strongest predictor for disclosure of illness for both genders.