AGORAPHOBIA AND GENDER - A REVIEW

Agoraphobia is approximately four times more likely to be diagnosed in women than in men in clinical or community samples. In this article, the literature on the relationship between agoraphobia, biological sex , and gender is reviewed. First, the numerical distribution of agoraph obia is discussed. Second, theories and results of studies are Pointed out that contribute to an explanation of the high prevalence of agora phobia in women. Special attention is paid to the relationship between agoraphobia, dependence, and gender It is concluded that dependence, or low autonomy, is relevant in agoraphobia but cannot explain the spe cificity of the disorder Third, the agoraphobia literature about gende red meanings of solitary and public anonymous situations and publicati ons on bodily sensations are discussed. It is concluded that the curre nt sex role approach to agoraphobia is too narrowly focussed. A broad- spectrum sex role approach is proposed. Finally, several research ques tions are raised for the future.