Identifying the features of partner acceptance of arthritis: A qualitative analysis

Patients who are more accepting of their chronic arthritis pain report better physical, mental, and occupational functioning, but acceptance of arthritis from the partner perspective has received little attention in the literature. In fact, no attempts have been made to define partner acceptance of arthritis and no psychometrically validated measure currently exists.

The aim of this study was to use qualitative research methods to identify the features of partner acceptance of arthritis and examine the similarities and differences between patient and partner acceptance in an arthritis context.

Twenty-one romantic partners of individuals with arthritis participated in a semistructured interview focusing on their experiences adjusting to their spouse's arthritis and their general perceptions of the meaning of acceptance. Interview transcripts were coded using thematic analysis.

Partners' descriptions of acceptance differed slightly across accounts, but the majority of participants agreed that acceptance is part of a positive process of adjusting to arthritis. Six themes that characterize the acceptance process were identified: (1) understanding the nature of arthritis; (2) believing in the patient's pain experience; (3) living with negative feelings; (4) establishing a new normal; (5) engaging in valued activities; and (6) relationship willingness.

The identified themes share some commonalities with experiential acceptance and patient chronic pain acceptance, although partner acceptance of arthritis also has several unique features. These findings suggest that more research on this distinct construct is merited. Directions for future research on partner acceptance of arthritis are discussed.