The NYT reports a study that indicates women are more stressed and more unhappy more of the time than men.
It's plausible. We're doing more than our mothers (in general, I'd say...I'm doing less), we have higher expectations, and the same amount of time to get everything done.
If this were true, what could we do about it? Should our priorities change? Should what makes us "happy" change?
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An interesting study. I can't say that the conclusions regarding the changing roles of the genders are accurate though. There certainly are societal transitions which are taking place, and that implies some pain and learning along the way.
Personally, I think that this really boils down to how people define happiness. The "I want it all" concept does not leave one much room for being happy.
Another thing about this issue; journalism that sells highlights the differences between people. It is not all that interesting to read about how we are getting along and adjusting to a changing environment. We do however love to hear about the conflicts, inequities and divisive theories. Reminds me of the Joe Walsh song "Dirty Laundry". The sphere of existence that we refer to as being an "man" and the one that we refer to as being a "woman" seem always to be defined in terms of society. What if we step away from that and just look at them as individual existences? How many folks of either gender would be able to look at themselves and say, "I am happy with my existence."? Take away the constant reminder that "we have issues", and that "we could have 'x' if we worked a little harder", and instead examine what we do have and how, for the most part, we do deal with issues very well in our dynamic world as individuals. I think our happiness measurement would jump a few notches.
I wonder too, if the onset of the aging baby boomers' might be putting a bit more stress on our collective conscience as well? (Ok , that is a stretch within the context of the study pointed out). I do definitely disagree with the implied difference between the genders approach to caring for or spending time with parents. That is pure bunk.
wjw
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