engleski

Relationship satisfaction of mental health patients - the role of individual and dyadic coping with stress

Having a satisfying romantic relationship greatly benefits one's mental health. On the other hand, when relationships suffer from stress, either caused by relationship problems or spilled into the relationship from outside sources, they are less satisfactory. In this study we were interested in relationship satisfaction of mental health patients. Mental health problems of one partner undoubtedly put strain on the relationship and force both partners to cope with this extra source of stress. So we wanted to examine how individual coping strategies, partner reactions and behaviour in stressful circumstances and ways of dyadic coping are related to relationship satisfaction. Also, we were curious whether the relationship between dyadic coping and assessed relationship satisfaction would be moderated by the current mental health state of the participants, because mental health patients surely have decreased capacity to deal with relationship level problems. A total number of 84 mental health patients currently involved in psychiatric treatment provided data concerning their current physical and mental health state, level of perceived stress, ways of coping and relationship satisfaction. Results indicate that individuals who are prone to more adaptive coping strategies tend to be more satisfied with their intimate relationships. Those who have partners who successfully deal with their stressful periods are also more satisfied with their relationships. More adaptive dyadic coping predicts higher relationship satisfaction. Obtained results are discussed in light of current mental state of participants and practical implications for therapeutic work with mental health patients are suggested.

stress; mental health patients; individual and dyadic coping; relationship satisfaction

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