Depression Symptoms and Trauma Coping Self-Efficacy: A Longitudinal Examination of Couples During COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic intensified stress for many couples and families, leading to increased depression symptoms and challenges with coping. This longitudinal study examined on actor- and partner-level dyadic associations between depressive symptoms and trauma coping self-efficacy (TCSE) among 535 heterosexual cisgender couples. Data were collected online across April (N = 535), July (N = 363), and November 2020 (N = 238). Results indicated significant temporal stability and longitudinal associations for both depression and TCSE within partners across time. Higher depression symptoms in one partner were linked to higher symptoms in the other, while greater TCSE was associated with lower depression symptoms in both male and female partners. Notably, lower depression symptoms were also linked with higher TCSE across all time points. Findings highlight the bidirectional nature of mental health and coping in couples during crisis and suggest early interventions may strengthen TCSE may help buffer against depressive symptoms over time.