A dyadic approach: applying a developmental-conceptual model to couples coping with chronic illness.
The purpose of the present study was to apply Berg and Upchurch's developmental-conceptual model toward a better understanding of how couples cope with chronic illness. Specifically, a model was hypothesized in which proximal factors (relational quality), dyadic appraisal (illness interference), and dyadic coping (partner support) influence adjustment (health condition management). The study was cross-sectional and included 308 dyads in which one partner has a chronic health condition. The actor partner interdependence model shows how congruence and noncongruence in relational quality, dyadic appraisal, and dyadic coping influence dyadic adjustment.
Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA mchecton@cse.edu.
Maria G
MG
Checton
Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA.
Kate
K
Magsamen-Conrad
Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA.
Maria K
MK
Venetis
Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA.
Kathryn
K
Greene
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D002908:Chronic Disease / Q000523:psychology*; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012648:Self Care; D012944:Social Support; D018454:Spouses / Q000523:psychology*
cancer; chronic illness; coping; dyadic coping; illness appraisal; support