An integrative perspective on the psychological response of women and men to unemployment

The psychological response to involuntary unemployment in men and women is discussed within a developmental systems model adapted from Ketz de Vries. The response to work loss is seen as a complex and multifaceted response to a specific critical event which is affected by concurrent and previous strings of critical events and role transitions and the overall constellation of psychosocial and sociocultural influences on the adaptation of men and women. Gaps in the research evidence are pointed out and directions for future research are suggested.