Question

-Explain Clinical Depression from a Psychology of Women perspective

(ie., what factors contribute to symptoms, etiology, diagnosis, prevalence, treatment)

-How can violence against women be framed using a Psychology of women approach (i.e. what contributes to it, how does it get processed, treated, impact on women and others)

-What are the salient features of "older women" (ie. their realities, functioning, social costructionism)

Answer 1

Since you have posted multiple questions, I am going to anwer first question. I hope it helps. Thanks

Depression:

It si defined as mental health disorder characterised by persistently depressed mood or loss of interest in activities, causing significant impairment in daily life.

Factors that contribute to depression in women:

• genetics,
• changes in hormone levels,
• certain medical conditions,
• stress,
• grief or difficult life circumstances.

Prevalence: women are twice as likely to experience major depression than men. They are also up to three times more apt to suffer from anxiety disorders or to attempt suicide. As compared to men, women experience much more fluctuation in hormone levels that are associated with symptoms of depression.

Symptoms of depression in women include:

• Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" mood
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities, including sex
• Restlessness, irritability, or excessive crying
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness, hopelessness, pessimism
• Sleeping too much or too little, early-morning waking
• Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
• Persistent physical symptoms that do not respond to treatment, such as headaches, digestive disorders, and chronic pain

Diagnosis: Your doctor can usually tell if you have depression by asking you specific questions and doing a physical exam. The doctor will likely do blood tests to check for medical conditions that may cause depressive symptoms.

Treatment: The most common treatment options for women suffering from depression include medications and therapy.