February 4, 2009

Reporters seeking an expert to discuss the mental toll that massive job losses in the United States could have on society and individuals can contact UAB sociologist Patricia Drentea, Ph.D. Drentea studies the sociology of work, debt and stress, and family and equity issues. She is available 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 4 and 3:15-4:15 p.m. Thursday Feb. 5.

"In the United States people generally attach their self-esteem to their jobs more than in most countries," says Drentea. "In the United States in particular, it [employment] seems to be a reflection on the person. We tend to work a lot more than in other countries, and we don't have strong feelings toward leisure. So when a job loss happens, the toll can be much greater in the United States than you see in other countries, and it can lead to depression, anxiety and stress. Even people who have jobs, but are left behind because their co-workers have lost jobs, often will experience stress from being left with more work."

Drentea can also discuss the emotional toll that job losses can have on families and relationships. For interviews, contact Gail Short, UAB Media Relations, at 205-934-8931 or gshort@uab.edu.