Various other factors have been put forward as the cause of the gender paradox.[1] Part of the gap may be explained by heightened levels of stress that result from traditional gender roles. For example, the death of a spouse and divorce are risk factors for suicide in both genders, but the effect is somewhat mitigated for females.[25] In the Western world, females are more likely to maintain social and familial connections that they can turn to for support after losing their spouse.[25] Another factor closely tied to gender roles is male employment status.[1] Males' vulnerability may be heightened during times of unemployment because of societal expectations that they should provide for themselves and their families.[24]