Women Working In Leadership Positions More Likely To Be Depressed

By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Women have made great strides in the workforce in the past decade. But, a new study which focused on 2,800 men and women found women in positions of authority are more likely to be depressed than female subordinates.

In men, the trend was reversed: male bosses were less likely to be depressed than other men.

According to the report in the Journal of Health and Social Behavior, women in charge are in a double bind. People expect bosses to be assertive and confident however many people also expect women to be friendly and nurturing. This leads to problems for many female leaders who can experience discrimination and stress, which can affect their mental health.

To add to the concerns, women with more education are especially susceptible to the effects.