The results of this new study even shocked lead researcher Professor Robin Simon. Men are more affected than women when faced with difficulties in an intimate relationship. This flies in the face of the long held theory that women are more vulnerable in relationships.
Relationship woes have a bigger effect on the mental health of young men. The study shows that women are more likely to share their depression with friends, while men keep their feelings to themselves. This can have a negative impact on their health and sometimes leads to substance abuse.
Young men are more responsive to the quality of a serious romantic relationship. A man’s mental health is greatly affected by the stress of a stormy relationship. The study also notes that men derive the greatest emotional benefits when things are going well. It calls into question the image of a stoic man who is not affected by what happens in a relationship.
Some experts say that men have few people they can trust apart from their companion, which might explain why it is more painful for them and why they keep things to themselves.
The study shows that young men are more affected by the quality of their current relationship, but young women are more emotionally affected by the fact of being in a relationship or not.