Sex differences in the relationship between interpersonal problems and defensive style

Horowitz, et al.'s Inventory of Interpersonal Problems and Bond, et al.'s Defensive Style Questionnaire were completed by 42 women and 35 men. Significant correlations emerged between most interpersonal problems and the tendency for both men and women to use immature and intermediate defense mechanisms in both work and intimate relationships. However, women were more likely than men to employ immature defenses when dealing with issues of "control" in intimate relationships while men were more likely to employ intermediate defenses in response to problems with "intimacy" in work relationships. Data support further inquiry into sex differences in interpersonal problems and defensive style.