Adjustment Mechanisms in the Acute Phase of Myocardial Infarction in Men

Stress and Coping Model and Post-Traumatic Growth Theory indicate adjustment procedures concepts after a crisis. The objective of this study was to assess the relationships between causal attributions, coping strategies and post-traumatic growth in male patients with acute myocardial infarction and variable cardiac function severity.

Seventy-eight male patients surviving a myocardial infarction, were divided into two sub-groups based on left ventricular ejection fraction measurements [Group A (left ventricular ejection fraction: <45%, n = 34), Group B (left ventricular ejection fraction: ≥45%, n = 44)] and were interviewed after the acute phase of myocardial infarction, on the last day of their coronary unit stay. Medical data was obtained from their medical records. Causal Attributions' List, Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced and Post-Traumatic Growth Inventory were used.

Causal attributions were found to be related to active coping, emotional support, religious coping and self-blame in both groups. Planning, positive reinterpretation and active coping were the strategies associated positively with most of the post-traumatic inventory subscales in total data analyses.

Diverse coping strategies were associated with posttraumatic growth factors. It is important to assess adjustment mechanisms in the acute phase of myocardial infarction. A tailored scheme therapy, considering patient's needs, has to be planned.