Gender differences in response to war stress in hospital personnel: Does profession matter? A preliminary study

Background and Objectives: To study gender differences and the impact of trauma on hospital personnel during war. In addition, to test the relationship between gender and PTSD symptoms via mediation model. Methods: A random sample of physicians, nurses and administrative staff (n = 106) that were assessed for demographics, and PTSD symptoms a month after the war between Lebanon and Israel erupted. Results: Women had higher IES-R scores in comparison to men (25.27 vs. 16.18). Gender differences were reduced when accounted for profession. In each profession, no significant gender differences were found. The results of the mediation model showed significant mediation by profession and education. Conclusions: These results may suggest that gender differences in response to traumatic events may not be explained by exposure per se, but rather may result from various possible factors such as profession, education and control over the situation. The results warrant further longitudinal study. Received 24 August 2007 Revised 5 April 2008 Accepted 18 April 2008