Anxiety in women : a lifespan perspective

Abstract

This research study aims to explore the manifestation of ‘normative’ anxiety within women across the lifespan. The findings within this study aim to answer the research question: ‘How does anxiety in women unfold across the lifespan?’ A qualitative approach was adopted and semi-structured interviews were carried out to 5 female participants with ages ranging from young to older adulthood. The main focus of the study was to acquire greater insight as to how anxiety progresses after adolescent years. The data collected was analysed through the use of Thematic Analysis, from which 4 overarching themes emerged. These were: 1) ‘The way Anxiety is Portrayed’, 2) Prevailing Triggers, 3) The Differential Coping Strategies and 4) Anxiety: A part of Women. The results show consistency across all ages with regards to certain concepts. What was evident was the different ways in which triggers are portrayed and dealt with at different ages. Great emphasis was placed on societal expectations as these proved to be salient across all ages in different aspects. It was also evident that with age and maturation, coping skill meliorate and improve. This study can hopefully increase awareness about the effects day to day anxiety can impose on an individual.