What Women Know and Feel about Social Support that Men Don't: Two Tests of a Dual-Process Approach to Explaining Sex Differences in Responses to Supportive Messages

Authors:

• Brant R. Burleson (Purdue University)
• Graham D. Bodie (Purdue University)
• Amanda J. Holmstrom (Michigan State University)
• Jessica J. Rack (Purdue University)
• Jennifer Gill Rosier (Purdue University)
• Lisa K. Hanasono (Purdue University)
• Jennifer D. McCullough (Purdue University)

Abstract:

Sex differences in responses to supportive communication have been reported frequently, but most explanations of these differences are fragmented or flawed. The present paper proposes a comprehensive explanation for these sex differences that is grounded in a dual-process theory of supportive message outcomes. We report two studies that evaluate the mediating effects of an ability factor (cognitive complexity) and two motivational factors (expressive and instrumental orientations) with respect to sex differences in supportive message processing and outcomes; Study 1 focused on everyday comforting contexts whereas Study 2 focused on bereavement. Results from both studies indicated that cognitive complexity mediated sex differences in depth of processing, whereas cognitive complexity and expressive orientation collectively mediated sex differences in evaluative responses to supportive messages. Theoretical and pragmatic implications of the results are discussed.