Distinct dyadic coping patterns in couples managing gestational diabetes mellitus: a latent profile analysis

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Endocrinology
• Psychology

Background:

• Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) management involves couples, yet their coping patterns remain uncharacterized.
• Male partner involvement in GDM management shows inconsistent effects on outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify distinct dyadic coping patterns within couples managing GDM.
• To compare self-management behaviors across these identified patterns.
• To examine predictors associated with each dyadic coping pattern.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 200 couples in Guangzhou, China.
• Utilized the Couple Collaborative Management Scale and GDM Knowledge Questionnaire.
• Latent profile analysis identified dyadic coping patterns.

Main Results:

• Three dyadic coping patterns were identified: low-positive/low-negative (20%), high-positive/high-negative (12%), and high-positive/low-negative (68%).
• Significant differences in self-management behaviors were found across the patterns.
• Adverse obstetric history, paternal GDM knowledge, and maternal dyadic appraisal predicted pattern membership.

Conclusions:

• Findings offer healthcare professionals insight into couple dynamics in GDM management.
• One-third of couples displayed suboptimal dyadic coping, necessitating intervention.
• Routine screening for maladaptive patterns and tailored dyadic interventions are recommended for optimizing GDM management.