Couple-Oriented Interventions for Mental Health: A Scoping Review

Area of Science:

• Mental Health Research
• Family Psychology
• Intervention Science

Background:

• Couple-oriented interventions are crucial for addressing mental health within relational contexts.
• Existing literature requires systematic examination to identify trends and effective strategies.
• Understanding intervention delivery and theoretical underpinnings is vital for advancing mental health care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and synthesize evidence on couple-oriented interventions for mental health.
• To identify trends in research strategies and intervention delivery modes.
• To provide recommendations for future research and clinical implementation.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search for studies on couple-oriented interventions for mental disorder prevention and mental health promotion.
• Inclusion of 52 studies (55 articles) in the final analysis.
• Analysis of intervention delivery modes, theoretical frameworks, and measurement approaches.

Main Results:

• A total of 52 studies were identified, utilizing various delivery methods including face-to-face, telephone, and online.
• The majority of interventions were delivered in conjoint sessions.
• Selective prevention targeting cancer patients and their partners was the most common intervention focus.
• Evidence supports the use of theoretical frameworks, dyad analysis, and specific measurements in couple-oriented interventions.

Conclusions:

• Couple-oriented interventions demonstrate broad applicability and effectiveness across different mental health contexts.
• Findings support the development and implementation of evidence-based couple interventions for primary prevention and mental health promotion.
• Family nurse practitioners and healthcare professionals can utilize this evidence to enhance couple-focused mental health strategies.