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Dyadic coping and relationship functioning in couples coping with cancer: a systematic review.
Marjan J Traa1, Jolanda De Vries, Guy Bodenmann
1Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Centre of Research on Psychology in Somatic Diseases (CoRPS), Tilburg University, The Netherlands.
British Journal of Health Psychology
|March 18, 2014
Summary
Couples coping with cancer benefit from positive dyadic coping, characterized by open communication and support, which enhances relationship functioning. Inconsistent results from interventions highlight the need for further research into specific couple needs.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Oncology
- Couple Therapy
Background:
- Cancer impacts couples as a unit, influencing their coping strategies.
- Dyadic coping, or how couples cope together, is crucial for relationship functioning during cancer survivorship.
- Existing reviews suggest couple-based interventions can improve dyadic coping and psychosocial adjustment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the relationship between dyadic coping and relationship functioning in couples facing cancer.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of interventions designed to improve dyadic coping in enhancing relationship functioning.
- To provide recommendations for future research in couple-based cancer care.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature search was conducted across major databases (PubMed, PsycINFO, Cochrane Library, EMBASE) from January 1990 to September 2012.
- Included studies were assessed for design, measurement, analytical techniques, and participant numbers.
- Focus was on identifying dyadic coping strategies and their impact on relationship functioning.
Main Results:
- Positive dyadic coping (e.g., constructive communication, support, joint problem-solving) correlated with better relationship functioning.
- Dysfunctional coping (e.g., protective buffering, demand-withdraw) was linked to poorer relationship functioning.
- Intervention study results were mixed; some showed benefits, others did not, or only for couples with strong existing resources.
Conclusions:
- Adequate dyadic coping is vital for maintaining or improving relationship functioning in couples affected by cancer.
- Dysfunctional dyadic coping can hinder relationship quality.
- Further research with standardized conceptualization and assessment of dyadic coping is needed to clarify intervention benefits for specific couples.
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