In this episode, I dive into the science of rumination and explore why women are more likely than men to get caught in cycles of overthinking. I discuss how gendered parenting styles, societal pressures, and even biology play a role in this detrimental mental loop, along with practical tips to break free from it. Tune in to know more about how better understanding of rumination can empower us to find healthier ways to manage stress and emotions.

Hosted by Xiaoye

Timeline

01:30 Rumination, what is it?

02:12 More use of rumination, higher likelihood of depression

04:07 "Why women use more rumination" explained:

1. a) gendered parenting style


2. b) societal stressors


3. c) hormones

09:09 How to reduce the use of rumination:

1. a) personal strategies: seeking social support & distraction


2. b) changing parenting styles


3. c) working towards greater gender equality

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Key references

Michl, L. C., McLaughlin, K. A., Shepherd, K., & Nolen-Hoeksema, S. (2013). Rumination as a mechanism linking stressful life events to symptoms of depression and anxiety: longitudinal evidence in early adolescents and adults. Journal of abnormal psychology, 122(2), 339.

Nolen-Hoeksema, S. (1987). Sex differences in unipolar depression: evidence and theory. Psychological bulletin, 101(2), 259.

Nolen-Hoeksema, S. (1991). Responses to depression and their effects on the duration of depressive episodes. Journal of abnormal psychology, 100(4), 569.

Nolen-Hoeksema, S. (2000). The role of rumination in depressive disorders and mixed anxiety/depressive symptoms. Journal of Abnormal Psychology, 109(3), 504–511. doi.org

Nolen-Hoeksema, S., & Hilt, L. M. (2009). Gender differences in depression. In I. H. Gotlib & C. L. Hammen (Eds.), Handbook of depression (pp. 386–404). The Guilford Press.

Nolen-Hoeksema, S., & Jackson, B. (2001). Mediators of the gender difference in rumination. Psychology of women quarterly, 25(1), 37-47.

Nolen-Hoeksema, S., Larson, J., & Grayson, C. (1999). Explaining the gender difference in depressive symptoms. Journal of personality and social psychology, 77(5), 1061. Nolen-Hoeksema, S., Wisco, B. E., & Lyubomirsky, S. (2008). Rethinking rumination. Perspectives on psychological science, 3(5), 400-424.