Dyadic coping and multiple sclerosis: A qualitative exploration of differences between couples high and low in...

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Health Sciences
• Sociology

Background:

• Multiple sclerosis (MS) impacts millions globally, with 25% of individuals reporting negative effects on their romantic relationships.
• Partnered individuals with MS often report lower disability levels, and patient-partner well-being is correlated, necessitating a dyadic approach to coping.
• Understanding coping mechanisms within couples affected by MS is crucial for enhancing overall well-being.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore individual and conjoint dyadic coping strategies in couples managing multiple sclerosis (MS).
• To compare coping strategies between couples with high and low relationship functioning.
• To identify how relationship dynamics influence coping with MS.

Main Methods:

• Nine individuals diagnosed with MS and their partners (n=9) participated in the study.
• Couples were purposively sampled based on high and low relationship functioning, defined by dyadic satisfaction, cohesion, consensus, and illness interference.
• Data were collected through separate interviews analyzed using thematic and content analysis.

Main Results:

• High relationship functioning couples employed positive coping strategies like active engagement and illness acceptance.
• These couples conceptualized MS as a shared issue, fostering collaborative coping.
• Low relationship functioning couples exhibited negative strategies, including avoidance and ineffective communication, viewing MS as an individual problem.

Conclusions:

• Romantic relationships significantly influence the physical and psychosocial well-being of individuals with MS.
• Dyadic coping strategies are vital for navigating the challenges of MS within a relationship.
• Interventions aimed at improving couple communication and shared coping may enhance outcomes for individuals with MS.