Social support in couples: An examination of gender differences using self-report and observational methods.

Abstract

Two studies were conducted to examine gender differences in spousal support. Study 1 was a survey study involving 458 married couples, and Study 2 was an observational study involving 32 married couples. Self-reports were used in both studies to assess spouses’ support behaviors and perceived support. These measures were supplemented in Study 2 with measures of observed support behavior and on-line perceived support, as assessed during support interactions. Overall, the self-report measures yielded significant gender differences in support soliciting and support provision, whereas the observational measures did not. Furthermore, the results concerning global and on-line perceived support and support profiles were inconsistent with the “support gap” perspective. These findings were discussed in light of the existing research on gender differences in support and marriage.