Available evidence suggests that, compared with women, men have earlier age of onset of schizophrenia, poorer course and medication response, fewer affective symptoms and worse premorbid social and intellectual functioning. However there is a lack of data concerning gender differences in patients treated against their will.

54 male and 65 female patients, who met the criteria for an F2 disorder according to the ICD-10 at the admission were included. They were assessed three times, in the first week and at the end of first and third month after admission. A broad range of structured assessment instruments has been used to assess psychopathology, social functioning, subjective quality of life, perceived coercion concerning admission, satisfaction with the treatment, socio-demographic characteristics, etc.

The results indicates that there is no significant difference when comparing changes in total scores in psychopathology, satisfaction with therapy and quality of life. But there is a gender discrepancy when comparing certain single items from the scales, e.g. men were more severely impaired in ratings of grandiosity and unusual thought content, while women manifesting slightly better social functioning. Also in some socio-demographic features, in the use of coercive measures and in the reasons why are they applied gender plays a role.

In the majority of observed aspects concerning involuntary treatment, we have not found radical differences when it comes to gender. However, there are distinct disparities mainly in social functioning sphere, particular quality of life components and the motives for using coercive measures.