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Parsons A, Jones SCT, Teves JB, Petty KH, Christensen A. The importance of highlighting culturally relevant factors in the DEEP analysis when using IBCT with African American couples. JOURNAL OF MARITAL AND FAMILY THERAPY 2024. [PMID: 39233366 DOI: 10.1111/jmft.12732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 07/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024]
Abstract
Integrative Behavioral Couple Therapy (IBCT) posits that couple distress can, in part, be attributed to four factors labeled with the acronym DEEP: natural Uifferences between partners in their perspectives, beliefs, interests, and personalities, partner's Emotional sensitivities related to these differences, the External, contextual stressors that often exacerbate their differences and sensitivities, and the resultant Patterns of distressed interaction. Although an extensive assessment process captures these four components and thus tailors targets for intervention based on the unique characteristics of each couple, it does not explicitly consider the uniqueness of African American couples. Given the historical and contemporary realities that African American couples face (e.g., anti-Black racism), the purpose of this article is to help clinicians use IBCT with African American couples in a culturally responsive way. We begin this article by highlighting the unique needs of African American couples. We then provide a broad overview of the benefits of adopting a multicultural lens of awareness, knowledge, and skills in clinical work, present an atheoretical overview of IBCT, and offer specific recommendations to attend to the unique cultural experiences of African American couples. Finally, we present a case study to exemplify our suggestions and highlight implications of using IBCT with African American couples in a culturally responsible way.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shawn C T Jones
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Jenna B Teves
- Ralph H. Johnson VAMC, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Karen H Petty
- Ralph H. Johnson VAMC, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Andrew Christensen
- Department of Psychology, Univerity of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
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2
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Pollak C, Cotton K, Winter J, Blumen H. Health Outcomes Associated with Loneliness and Social Isolation in Older Adults Living with HIV: A Systematic Review. AIDS Behav 2024:10.1007/s10461-024-04471-3. [PMID: 39231919 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04471-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024]
Abstract
Self-management of HIV is crucial to reduce disease-related negative health outcomes. Loneliness and social isolation are associated with poor disease self-management (e.g., medication non-adherence and care disengagement) in younger people with HIV and negative health outcomes in the general older adult population. Older adults with HIV (OWH) are at increased risk for loneliness and social isolation, but the associated health outcomes remain unclear. A comprehensive review of Pubmed, Embase, PsycINFO, and Web of Science databases was conducted. Criteria for inclusion were original quantitative research, published in the English language, included adults with a mean age ≥ 50 years, and included a measure for loneliness or social isolation, and a health outcome measure. A total of 41 studies were analyzed and 19,282 participants contributed to this review. The main findings were that loneliness and social isolation were associated with negative health behavior, disease self-management, physiological, and psychological outcomes. Pooled prevalence of loneliness was 33.9% across 8 studies. Loneliness and social isolation are highly prevalent in OWH and are associated with negative outcomes in OWH, similarly to older adults in the general population. Older adults with HIV, however, are challenged by unique psychosocial circumstances that place them at greater risk for loneliness and social isolation and associated negative health outcomes. These findings should be verified in larger, diverse, and longitudinal samples to better understand interrelationships of psychosocial factors and clinical outcomes in OWH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chava Pollak
- Department of Medicine (Geriatrics), Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1225 Morris Park Ave, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA.
| | - Kelly Cotton
- Department of Neurology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1225 Morris Park Ave, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA
| | - Jennifer Winter
- College of Health Professions, Pace University, 861 Bedford Rd, Pleasantville, NY, 10570, USA
| | - Helena Blumen
- Department of Medicine (Geriatrics), Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1225 Morris Park Ave, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA
- Department of Neurology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1225 Morris Park Ave, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA
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3
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Doyle DM, Link BG. On social health: history, conceptualization, and population patterning. Health Psychol Rev 2024; 18:619-648. [PMID: 38349646 PMCID: PMC11332409 DOI: 10.1080/17437199.2024.2314506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024]
Abstract
We propose a psychologically-informed concept of social health to join physical and mental components in a more comprehensive assessment of human health. Although there is an extensive literature on the importance of social relationships to health, a theoretical framework is needed to coalesce this work into a codified conceptualisation of social health, defined here as adequate quantity and quality of relationships in a particular context to meet an individual's need for meaningful human connection. Informing this novel conceptualisation, we outline eight key propositions to guide future research and theory on social health, including five propositions focused on the conceptualisation of social health and three focused on its population patterning. The former five propositions include that social health is an outcome in its own right, that health interventions can have divergent effects on social versus physical and mental aspects of health, that social health has independent effects on quality of life, that it is a dynamic and contextual construct, and that it is embedded and encoded in the human body (and mind). The utility of the social health concept is further revealed in its significance for understanding and addressing population health concerns, such as health inequalities experienced by marginalised groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Matthew Doyle
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location VUmc, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Bruce G. Link
- School of Public Policy and Department of Sociology, University of California, Riverside, CA, US
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Costello W, Rolon V, Thomas AG, Schmitt DP. The Mating Psychology of Incels (Involuntary Celibates): Misfortunes, Misperceptions, and Misrepresentations. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2024; 61:989-1000. [PMID: 37676789 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2023.2248096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
Mating represents a suite of fundamental adaptive problems for humans. Yet a community of men, called incels (involuntary celibates), forge their identity around their perceived inability to solve these problems. Many incels engage in misogynistic online hostility, and there are concerns about violence stemming from the community. Despite significant media speculation about the potential mating psychology of incels, this has yet to be formally investigated in the scientific literature. In the first formal investigation of incel mating psychology, we compared a sample (n = 151) of self-identified male incels with non-incel single males (n = 149). Findings revealed that incels have a lower sense of self-perceived mate-value and a greater external locus of control regarding their singlehood. Contrary to mainstream media narratives, incels also reported lower minimum standards for mate preferences than non-incels. Incels (and non-incel single men) significantly overestimated the importance of physical attractiveness and financial prospects to women, and underestimated the importance of intelligence, kindness, and humor. Furthermore, incels underestimated women's overall minimum mate preference standards. Our findings suggest that incels should be targeted for interventions to challenge cognitive distortions around female mate preferences. Implications for incels' mental health and misogynistic attitudes are discussed, as well as directions for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Costello
- Department of Individual Differences and Evolutionary Psychology, University of Texas at Austin
| | - Vania Rolon
- Centre for Culture and Evolution, Brunel University London
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5
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Güler A, Yıldırım M, Gómez-Salgado J. Social network, fair payment, subjective well-being, and general health: a moderation mediation analysis. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1418394. [PMID: 39253280 PMCID: PMC11381407 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1418394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 09/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective This research aimed to investigate whether subjective general health mediated the relationship between social networks and subjective well-being and whether the perception of fair payment moderated the mediating effect of subjective general health on subjective well-being. Methods Data were drawn from round 9 of the European Social Survey (ESS), involving 3,843 respondents from 19 countries, with ages ranging from 65 to 90 years (Meanage = 73.88 ± 6.61 years). The participants completed self-reported measures assessing subjective well-being, social networks, subjective general health, and perception of fair payment. Results Subjective general health played a mediating role in the relationship between social networks and subjective well-being. The perception of fair payment emerged as a moderator in the mediating effect of subjective general health on the association between social networks and subjective well-being. Conclusion This study suggests that the impact of social networks on both subjective general health and subjective well-being is contingent upon individuals' perceptions of fair payment. These results highlight the significance of social networks in fostering social connections and promoting overall subjective well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdurrahim Güler
- Department of Sociology, Ağrı İbrahim Çeçen University, Ağrı, Türkiye
| | - Murat Yıldırım
- Department of Psychology, Ağrı İbrahim Çeçen University, Ağrı, Türkiye
- Graduate Studies and Research, Lebanese American University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Juan Gómez-Salgado
- Department of Sociology, Social Work and Public Health, Faculty of Labour Sciences, University of Huelva, Huelva, Spain
- Escuela de Posgrado, Universidad de Especialidades Espíritu Santo, Guayaquil, Ecuador
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6
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Lyons HA, Warner DF, Orbuch TL. Sexual Expression and Subsequent Marital Quality Among Partnered Older Adults. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2024:10.1007/s10508-024-02956-9. [PMID: 39164539 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-024-02956-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/07/2024] [Indexed: 08/22/2024]
Abstract
A great deal of research has linked aspects of couples' sex lives to the quality of their relationships. Yet most of this work is with younger couples. Although sexual frequency is associated with positive marital quality, less is known regarding how sexual expression-sexual attitudes, desires, and behaviors-influences later positive and negative marital quality, particularly in older couples. Using latent class analysis and dyadic data on 620 heterosexual couples in long-term marriages from Rounds 2 and 3 of the National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project, we examined how couple-level configurations of sexual expression influence later marital quality. Generally, the latent classes with more agreement on sexual expression and higher overall sexual frequency were associated with later higher positive marital quality for both wives and husbands. Sexual expression configurations were associated with wives' negative marital quality, not husbands' negative marital quality. Across classes, wives' better mental health and husbands' functional limitations were associated with later marital quality. It is essential for practitioners to recognize the relevance of sexual expression to marital quality in older couples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi A Lyons
- The Department of Sociology, Anthropology, Social Work, and Criminal Justice, Oakland University, Rochester, MI, 48309, USA.
| | - David F Warner
- The Department of Sociology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
- Center for Family and Demographic Research, Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, OH, USA
| | - Terri L Orbuch
- The Department of Sociology, Anthropology, Social Work, and Criminal Justice, Oakland University, Rochester, MI, 48309, USA
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Khalifian C, Rashkovsky K, Mitchell E, Bismark A, Wagner AC, Knopp KC. A novel framework for ketamine-assisted couple therapy. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1376646. [PMID: 39193577 PMCID: PMC11347343 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1376646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Intimate relationship distress is prevalent and is associated with poorer health, mental health, and mortality outcomes. Evidence-based couple therapies target cognitive, behavioral, and emotional processes that underlie relationship dysfunction. Increasing research and clinical evidence supports the efficacy of ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) for addressing clinical mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety disorders, posttraumatic stress disorder, and more. The purported mechanisms of KAP are also likely to improve psychosocial and relational functioning for patients and may be useful for supporting change mechanisms in couple therapy. This paper reviews the current evidence for therapeutic ketamine and KAP and outlines how the mechanisms of ketamine therapy may also augment the cognitive, behavioral, and emotional interventions in the most commonly used evidence-based couple therapies. Key mechanisms include increased neuroplasticity, changes in functional connectivity, adaptive dissociation, decreased inhibition, and reduced avoidance. Given the reciprocal interaction between relationship dysfunction and mental health problems, ketamine may also help alleviate relationship distress by directly treating clinical mental health symptoms. We then outline a proposed framework for ketamine-assisted couple therapy, addressing the application of KAP preparation, dosing, and integration to a dyadic intervention framework in a way that can be applied to different couple therapy modalities. This clinical framework for couples' KAP may be useful for clinicians and researchers working to improve the efficacy of couple therapy, particularly when one or both partners has accompanying mental health concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- C. Khalifian
- Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - K. Rashkovsky
- Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - E. Mitchell
- Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - A. Bismark
- Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - A. C. Wagner
- Remedy, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychology, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - K. C. Knopp
- Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
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Robles TF. Interpersonal relationships, PNI, and health: Seeds in the 1980s, fruiting trees today. COMPREHENSIVE PSYCHONEUROENDOCRINOLOGY 2024; 19:100247. [PMID: 39036379 PMCID: PMC11260297 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpnec.2024.100247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024] Open
Abstract
In this contribution to the Special Issue, I highlight how Janice Kiecolt-Glaser's research in the 1980s planted the seeds for two areas of social relationships and health research: loneliness and intimate/marital relationships. I review the foundational "seed" studies from the mid-to late-1980s, the research "saplings" that sprouted and grew during the subsequent twenty years, and the "mature trees" that have gone on to fruit and grow their respective areas of inquiry over the past twenty years. In addition to highlighting the mature trees that have borne rich empirical fruit, my other goal for this contribution is to draw attention to ideas and concepts from Kiecolt-Glaser's work and writing that merit further conceptual and empirical examination in the next generation of research on social relationships, psychoneuroendocrinology, psychoneuroimmunology, and health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theodore F. Robles
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, United States
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9
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Azizi B, Soltani D, Arero AG, Karimi AS, Ramezani A, Vasheghani-Farahani A, Ashraf H, Akhondzadeh S, Khosravi H, Nateghi S, Dadpey T. Marital Quality-A Neglected Player in the Prevention of Cardiovascular Diseases: A Systematic Review of Longitudinal Studies. Curr Cardiol Rep 2024; 26:821-831. [PMID: 38963613 DOI: 10.1007/s11886-024-02082-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Marital quality (MQ) is a psychosocial factor that has been neglected in cardiovascular prevention guidelines, although its association with cardiovascular diseases has been identified in several studies. Therefore, we aim to investigate how MQ either in positive or negative dimensions affect different cardiovascular risk factors and diseases. RECENT FINDINGS We systematically searched different databases in September 2023 for longitudinal studies conducted to assess the contribution of MQ to well-established cardiovascular risk factors and diseases. Two independent researchers screened studies and carried out data extraction and quality assessment of included ones. From 12,175 potential studies screened, 40 were included. The presence of significant heterogeneity in methodology, follow-up, and subsequent effect estimates made it unfeasible to do a meta-analysis. Despite the variation, most studies found a significant association of negative MQ measures with physical inactivity (2/2), high levels of smoking (4/5) and alcohol (3/3) use, increased metabolic syndrome risk (3/3), elevated type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) risk and poor T2DM management (3/6), elevated cardiovascular disease risk and progression (9/11), increased body weight and obesity risk (2/3), elevated blood pressure and hypertension risk (7/8). Positive MQ measures were mainly associated with improvement in blood pressure control (2/2), reduced T2DM risk and its good management (1/1), reduced body weight and obesity risk (2/2), and increased survival in cardiovascular diseases (4/4). Based on current evidence, MQ seems to play a crucial role in developing established cardiovascular risk factors and diseases and is worth considering in preventive strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bayan Azizi
- Cardiac Primary Prevention Research Center (CPPRC), Cardiovascular Diseases Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Danesh Soltani
- Cardiac Primary Prevention Research Center (CPPRC), Cardiovascular Diseases Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Amanuel Godana Arero
- Cardiac Primary Prevention Research Center (CPPRC), Cardiovascular Diseases Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Asal Sadat Karimi
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Akam Ramezani
- Students' Scientific Research Center (SSRC), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Vasheghani-Farahani
- Cardiac Primary Prevention Research Center (CPPRC), Cardiovascular Diseases Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Haleh Ashraf
- Cardiac Primary Prevention Research Center (CPPRC), Cardiovascular Diseases Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahin Akhondzadeh
- Psychiatric Research Center, Roozbeh Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Helin Khosravi
- Students' Scientific Research Center (SSRC), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeed Nateghi
- Cardiac Primary Prevention Research Center (CPPRC), Cardiovascular Diseases Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Tahereh Dadpey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baharlu Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Tepeli Temiz Z, Bilican FI. Daily external stress, internal stress, dyadic coping, and relationship functioning of Turkish couples during the COVID-19: A daily diary study. Stress Health 2024:e3455. [PMID: 39088421 DOI: 10.1002/smi.3455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/03/2024]
Abstract
Stressors arising from the current COVID-19 pandemic have pernicious effects on relational functioning. However, the systemic transactional model (STM) addresses the buffering role of dyadic coping in couples' relationships. Therefore, the current study aimed to examine the possible buffering role of dyadic coping and investigate the negative consequences of external stressors related to the COVID-19 pandemic and internal stressors on relationship satisfaction and intimacy on within- and between-person levels. Data were collected from 100 couples through daily diary questions over 14 consecutive days. The mean age for females was 32.45 years (SD = 8.11), and for males, it was 34.79 years (SD = 8.79). The findings showed several significant within-person moderation effects. Specifically, simple slope analysis revealed that the associations between internal stress and relationship satisfaction, and intimacy were positive for both partners who reported particularly more dyadic coping on a given day. Conversely, interaction effect of dyadic coping with external stress has not been found significant on within-person level. Between-person effects revealed that dyadic coping buffers the negative association between external stress and relational outcomes and the negative effect of internal stress. The current study expanded the literature of the STM of dyadic coping within the context of an acute external crisis. In line with STM predictions, couples may benefit from interventions focused on enhancing coping strategies to navigate major and minor stressors, especially during significant life challenges, thereby maintaining high relationship quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahide Tepeli Temiz
- Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - F Isil Bilican
- Department of Psychology, Istanbul Medeniyet University, Istanbul, Turkey
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11
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Gouin JP, Dymarski M. Couples-based health behavior change interventions: A relationship science perspective on the unique opportunities and challenges to improve dyadic health. COMPREHENSIVE PSYCHONEUROENDOCRINOLOGY 2024; 19:100250. [PMID: 39155951 PMCID: PMC11326928 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpnec.2024.100250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Epidemiological studies indicate that better marital quality is associated with less morbidity and premature mortality. A number of interpersonal processes related to marital quality are also associated with health-relevant surrogate biomarkers across different physiological systems. Despite these replicated correlational findings, few interventions have harnessed interpersonal processes as potential interventions to enhance health. Building on Dr. Janice Kiecolt-Glaser's model of relationships and health, we propose that couples-based health behavior change interventions may represent an effective way to decrease dysregulation across autonomic, endocrine and immune systems and, ultimately, improve dyadic health. Given that the cohabiting partner is an essential part of the social context in which the behavior change is being pursued, it is important to consider the relational issues triggered by dyadic interventions. Using a relationship science perspective, this article reviews the literature on couples' concordance in health behaviors and health outcomes, the potential pathways underlying this concordance, theories of the couple as a self-sustaining social system, dyadic adaptation of individual self-regulation strategies, effective and ineffective social support and social control in couple relationships, the integration of relationship-building and health behavior change strategies, and the consideration of key moderators related to the nature of the relationship and the context surrounding the relationship. These findings highlight the importance of adopting a relationship science perspective when designing and testing dyadic interventions to improve health outcomes. The data reviewed provide insights on how to optimize couples-based health behavior change interventions to reduce physiological dysregulation and improve dyadic health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maegan Dymarski
- Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montreal, Canada
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12
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Ting A, Tsai TC, Zeitzer JM, Mendez A, Kim Y. Sleep Composition of Patients With Colorectal Cancer and Their Sleep-Partner Caregivers: Physical Health Correlates of Sleep Diary and Actigraphy Measurements. Psychooncology 2024; 33:e9302. [PMID: 39123341 PMCID: PMC11328964 DOI: 10.1002/pon.9302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Disturbed sleep is frequently identified in adult patients with cancer and their caregivers, with detrimental impact on physical health. Less known is the extent to which self-reported and actigraph-measured sleep patterns are similar between patients and their sleep-partner caregivers, and how these different modes of sleep measurements are related to physical health. METHODS Patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer and their sleep-partner caregivers (81 dyads) completed a questionnaire for physical functioning and collected saliva samples for seven consecutive days, from which cortisol slope was quantified. Additionally, participants completed a daily sleep diary and wore actigraph for 14 consecutive days, from which sleep duration, sleep onset latency (SOL), and duration of wake after sleep onset (WASO) were calculated. RESULTS Participants reported sleep patterns that fell within or close to the optimal range, which were similar between patients and their caregivers. Self-reported and actigraph-measured sleep duration had moderate levels of agreement (ICC = 0.604), whereas SOL and WASO had poor agreement (ICC = 0.269). Among patients, longer self-reported WASO was associated with poorer physical health and flatter cortisol slope (p ≤ 0.013). Among caregivers, longer self-reported SOL was associated with poorer physical functioning, actigraph-measured WASO was associated with steeper cortisol slope, and longer self-reported sleep markers studied than actigraph-measured were associated with poorer physical functioning (p ≤ 0.042). CONCLUSION Findings suggest that employing multiple assessment modes for sleep and physical health is vital for comprehensive understanding of sleep health. Furthermore, when addressing patients' sleep health, it may be beneficial to include their sleep-partner caregivers who may experience similar disturbed sleep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Ting
- University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, USA
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Bowers JM, Huelsnitz CO, Dwyer LA, Gibson LP, Agurs-Collins T, Ferrer RA, Acevedo AM. Measuring Relationship Influences on Romantic Couples' Cancer-Related Behaviors During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Protocol for a Longitudinal Online Study of Dyads and Cancer Survivors. JMIR Res Protoc 2024; 13:e48516. [PMID: 39083795 PMCID: PMC11325112 DOI: 10.2196/48516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research has established the effects of romantic relationships on individuals' morbidity and mortality. However, the interplay between relationship functioning, affective processes, and health behaviors has been relatively understudied. During the COVID-19 pandemic, relational processes may influence novel health behaviors such as social distancing and masking. OBJECTIVE We describe the design, recruitment, and methods of the relationships, risk perceptions, and cancer-related behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic study. This study was developed to understand how relational and affective processes influence romantic partners' engagement in cancer prevention behaviors as well as health behaviors introduced or exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS The relationships, risk perceptions, and cancer-related behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic study used online survey methods to recruit and enroll 2 cohorts of individuals involved in cohabiting romantic relationships, including 1 cohort of dyads (n=223) and 1 cohort of cancer survivors (n=443). Survey assessments were completed over 2 time points that were 5.57 (SD 3.14) weeks apart on average. Health behaviors assessed included COVID-19 vaccination and social distancing, physical activity, diet, sleep, alcohol use, and smoking behavior. We also examined relationship factors, psychological distress, and household chaos. RESULTS Data collection occurred between October 2021 and August 2022. During that time, a total of 926 participants were enrolled, of which about two-thirds were from the United Kingdom (n=622, 67.8%) and one-third were from the United States (n=296, 32.2%); about two-thirds were married (n=608, 66.2%) and one-third were members of unmarried couples (n=294, 32%). In cohorts 1 and 2, the mean age was about 34 and 50, respectively. Out of 478 participants in cohort 1, 19 (4%) identified as Hispanic or Latino/a, 79 (17%) as non-Hispanic Asian, 40 (9%) as non-Hispanic Black or African American, and 306 (64%) as non-Hispanic White; 62 (13%) participants identified their sexual orientation as bisexual or pansexual, 359 (75.1%) as heterosexual or straight, and 53 (11%) as gay or lesbian. In cohort 2, out of 440 participants, 13 (3%) identified as Hispanic or Latino/a, 8 (2%) as non-Hispanic Asian, 5 (1%) as non-Hispanic Black or African American, and 398 (90.5%) as non-Hispanic White; 41 (9%) participants identified their sexual orientation as bisexual or pansexual, 384 (87.3%) as heterosexual or straight, and 13 (3%) as gay or lesbian. The overall enrollment rate for individuals was 66.14% and the overall completion rate was 80.08%. CONCLUSIONS We discuss best practices for collecting online survey data for studies examining relationships and health, challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic, recruitment of underrepresented populations, and enrollment of dyads. Recommendations include conducting pilot studies, allowing for extra time in the data collection timeline for marginalized or underserved populations, surplus screening to account for expected attrition within dyads, as well as planning dyad-specific data quality checks. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/48516.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer M Bowers
- Behavioral Research Program, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, United States
| | - Chloe O Huelsnitz
- Behavioral Research Program, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, United States
| | - Laura A Dwyer
- Cape Fox Facilities Services, Manassas, VA, United States
| | - Laurel P Gibson
- Behavioral Research Program, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, United States
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, United States
| | - Tanya Agurs-Collins
- Behavioral Research Program, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, United States
| | - Rebecca A Ferrer
- Behavioral Research Program, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, United States
| | - Amanda M Acevedo
- Behavioral Research Program, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, United States
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Yang Z, Lai Y, Xiong C, Chen J, Guo Z, Guan S, Huang Y, Qiu Y, Yan J. Illness perception and intimate relationships in patients with cervical cancer: the mediating role of dyadic coping. Support Care Cancer 2024; 32:557. [PMID: 39080050 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-024-08762-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES A good intimate relationship (IR) can relieve the psychological distress of patients with cervical cancer and promote a sense of well-being during stressful times. Researchers have found that IR is related to illness perception (IP) and dyadic coping (DC). Therefore, this study aimed to (1) describe the IR of patients with cervical cancer, (2) identify the relationships and pathways among IP, DC and IR in patients with cervical cancer and (3) explore the mediating role of DC between IP and IR in cervical cancer patients. METHODS A total of 175 patients with cervical cancer were recruited at a tertiary hospital in China from September 2021 to January 2023. The data were collected through a general demographic and disease-related information questionnaire, the Locke-Wallace Marriage Adjustment Test, the Revised Illness Perception Questionnaire of Cervical Cancer and the Dyadic Coping Inventory. RESULTS The mean score for intimate relationships was 107.78 (SD = 23.99, range 30-154). Pearson's correlation analysis revealed that intimate relationships were positively correlated with IP (personal control) and DC (stress communication, supportive DC, delegated DC and common DC) and were negatively correlated with IP (consequence, timeline acute/chronic, timeline cyclical and emotional representation) and negative DC. As for the results of the structural equation model, DC fully mediated the influencing effects of both positive and negative IP on IR. CONCLUSIONS The level of IR of patients with cervical cancer in China should be improved. DC has a significant mediating effect on the link between the IP and IR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqi Yang
- School of Nursing, Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 74, Zhongshan II Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, P.R. China
| | - Yuerong Lai
- Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, 651 Dongfeng East Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, P.R. China
| | - Chenxia Xiong
- Yunnan Cancer Hospital, 519 Kunzhou Road, Xishan District, Kunming City, Yunnan Province, P.R. China
| | - Jing Chen
- School of Nursing, Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 74, Zhongshan II Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, P.R. China
| | - Zijun Guo
- School of Nursing, Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 74, Zhongshan II Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, P.R. China
| | - Siyu Guan
- School of Nursing, Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 74, Zhongshan II Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, P.R. China
| | - Yaqian Huang
- School of Nursing, Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 74, Zhongshan II Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, P.R. China
| | - YuQi Qiu
- School of Nursing, Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 74, Zhongshan II Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, P.R. China
| | - Jun Yan
- School of Nursing, Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 74, Zhongshan II Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, P.R. China.
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15
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Sailer LL, Haghani A, Zoller JA, Li CZ, Ophir AG, Horvath S. Epigenetic aging studies of pair bonding in prairie voles. Sci Rep 2024; 14:17439. [PMID: 39075111 PMCID: PMC11286801 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-67641-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
The quality of romantic relationships can predict health consequences related to aging. DNA methylation-based biomarkers of aging accurately estimate chronological age. We developed several highly accurate epigenetic aging clocks, based on highly conserved mammalian CpGs, for the socially monogamous prairie vole (Microtus ochrogaster). In addition, our dual-species human-vole clock accurately measured relative age and illustrates high species conservation of epigenetic aging effects. Next, we assessed how pair bonding impacts epigenetic aging. We did not find evidence that pair-bonded voles exhibit accelerated or decelerated epigenetic aging effects in blood, ear, liver, or brain tissue. Our epigenome wide association study identified CpGs in five genes strongly associated with pair bonding: Foxp4, Phf2, Mms22l, Foxb1, and Eif1ad. Overall, we present accurate DNA methylation-based estimators of age for a species of great interest to researchers studying monogamy in animals. We did not find any evidence that sex-naive animals age differently from pair-bonded animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay L Sailer
- Department of Psychology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | | | - Joseph A Zoller
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Caesar Z Li
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Alexander G Ophir
- Department of Psychology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA.
| | - Steve Horvath
- Altos Labs, San Diego, USA.
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
- Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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16
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de Albuquerque Araújo L, Icaza G, Márquez C, Albala C. Social relationships and their association with the functional capacity of older Chilean adults: longitudinal evidence. BMC Geriatr 2024; 24:616. [PMID: 39030478 PMCID: PMC11264702 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-024-05184-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Functional capacity is recognized as a central factor for health in old age and not all studies that seek to clarify the role of social relationships in functional capacity are conclusive. The subject has only been studied in a limited way in Latin America, a region that is aging prematurely, with evidence primarily from developed countries, which have experienced a more gradual aging of their population. This longitudinal study aimed to determine how aspects of social relationships impact the functionality of older Chileans. METHODOLOGY We conducted a cohort study of 2,265 people aged 60 years or older who lived in the community and resided in Greater Santiago, Chile. Five aspects of social relationships were considered at baseline (participation in groups, clubs, or organizations; number of people in the household; participation in recreational activities; perception of material support, help or advice, and marital status), from which a cluster analysis by conglomerate was performed and used as the exposure of interest. Functional limitation (FL) was the dependent variable, classified as a limitation in at least 1 basic activity of daily living or 1 instrumental activity or 2 advanced activities. The control variables considered were: sex, age, educational level, multimorbidity, depression and years of follow-up. Survival analyses using a Cox proportional hazard regression and multilevel logistic regressions (person level and follow-up wave level) were performed. RESULTS The identified clusters were four: "without social participation and does not live alone"; "without a partner and without social participation"; "no perception of support and no social participation"; "with participation, partner and perception of support". Social relationship clusters predicted FL incidence and FL reporting during follow-up. Being in the clusters "without social participation and does not live alone" and "without partner and without social participation" were risk factors for incident FL and report of FL during follow-up, compared to being in the reference cluster "with participation, partner and perception of support. CONCLUSIONS In summary, our study showed that participating in social organizations, not living alone and having a partner are protective factors for presenting and developing functional limitation in old age for community-living Chileans in an urban area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Letícia de Albuquerque Araújo
- School of Nutrition, Faculty of Health Sciences, Catholic University of Maule, Carmen 684, Curicó, Chile
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Av. Independencia 939, Santiago, Chile
| | - Gloria Icaza
- Institute of Mathematics and Physics, University of Talca, Av. Lircay, S/N, Talca, Chile
| | - Carlos Márquez
- Aging Core, Public Nutrition Unit, Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology (INTA), University of Chile, Av. El Líbano 5524, Macul, Santiago, Chile
| | - Cecilia Albala
- Aging Core, Public Nutrition Unit, Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology (INTA), University of Chile, Av. El Líbano 5524, Macul, Santiago, Chile.
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17
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Fenech AL, Soriano EC, Asok A, Siegel SD, Morreale M, Brownlee HA, Laurenceau JP. Fear of cancer recurrence and change in hair cortisol concentrations in partners of breast cancer survivors. J Cancer Surviv 2024:10.1007/s11764-024-01631-1. [PMID: 38954249 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-024-01631-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Partners of breast cancer (BC) survivors report high rates of psychological distress including fear of cancer recurrence (FCR). Research suggests that partners may have poorer physical health outcomes than the general population, but little research has examined the physiological biomarkers by which distress may impact partner health outcomes. The current study examined the associations between FCR and changes in hair cortisol among BC partners. METHODS Male partners (N = 73) of early-stage BC survivors provided hair samples during two visits, one after completion of survivors' adjuvant treatment (T1) and again 6 months later (T2). Two subscales from the Fear of Cancer Recurrence Inventory and one subscale from the Concerns about Recurrence Scale comprised a latent FCR factor at T1. A latent change score model was used to examine change in cortisol as a function of FCR. RESULTS Partners were on average 59.65 years of age (SD = 10.53) and non-Hispanic White (83%). Latent FCR at T1 was positively associated (b = 0.08, SE = 0.03, p = .004, standardized β = .45) with change in latent hair cortisol from T1 to T2. CONCLUSIONS Results indicated that greater FCR was associated with increases in hair cortisol in the months following adjuvant treatment. This is one of the first studies to examine the physiological correlates of FCR that may impact health outcomes in BC partners. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS Findings highlight the need for further research into the relationship between FCR and its physiological consequences. Interventions to address partner FCR are needed and may aid in improving downstream physical health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa L Fenech
- Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, University of Delaware, 108 Wolf Hall, Newark, DE, USA.
| | | | - Arun Asok
- Alien Therapeutics Inc, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Scott D Siegel
- Helen F. Graham Cancer Center & Research Institute, Christiana Care, Newark, DE, USA
| | - Michael Morreale
- Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, University of Delaware, 108 Wolf Hall, Newark, DE, USA
| | - Hannah A Brownlee
- Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, University of Delaware, 108 Wolf Hall, Newark, DE, USA
| | - Jean-Philippe Laurenceau
- Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, University of Delaware, 108 Wolf Hall, Newark, DE, USA.
- Helen F. Graham Cancer Center & Research Institute, Christiana Care, Newark, DE, USA.
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18
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Lübke L, Flemming E, Müller S, Brähler E, Fegert JM, Spitzer C. [Assessing Relationship Satisfaction with Four Items? Psychometric Evaluation of the Ultra-short German Version of the Dyadic Adjustment Scale (DAS-4)]. Psychother Psychosom Med Psychol 2024; 74:295-300. [PMID: 38648797 DOI: 10.1055/a-2278-6502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
The quality of an individual's relationship plays a central role in their personal well-being as well as their mental and physical health. Despite its great importance, there are only a few ultra-short self-report measures for the assessment of relationship quality. An exception is the four-item version of the Dyadic Adjustment Scale (DAS-4), which is gaining increasing popularity internationally. In this study, the German version of the DAS-4 was evaluated for the first time with regard to its psychometric properties in a general population sample of individuals in a romantic relationship (N=1296). In addition to satisfactory item characteristics, the unidimensional measurement model showed sufficient goodness of fit and the internal consistency was satisfactory (ω=0.80). Measurement invariance was shown for men and women based on the latent construct of the DAS-4. In line with the hypothesis, associations of the DAS-4 with gender, general life satisfaction, psychopathology and attachment styles were found, which suggests construct validity. Despite the lack of application experiences and pending psychometric analyses of the DAS-4 in relevant target groups, such as individuals in couples counselling or therapy, the four-item version can be recommended for assessing relationship satisfaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Lübke
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Psychosomatische Medizin und Psychotherapie, Universitätsmedizin Rostock
| | - Eva Flemming
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Psychosomatische Medizin und Psychotherapie, Universitätsmedizin Rostock
| | - Sascha Müller
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Psychosomatische Medizin und Psychotherapie, Universitätsmedizin Rostock
| | - Elmar Brähler
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Psychosomatische Medizin und Psychotherapie, Universitätsmedizin der Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz
- Integriertes Forschungs- und Behandlungszentrum Adipositas Erkrankungen, Universitätsklinikum Leipzig
| | - Jörg M Fegert
- Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie/Psychotherapie, Universitätsklinikum Ulm
| | - Carsten Spitzer
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Psychosomatische Medizin und Psychotherapie, Universitätsmedizin Rostock
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Wilson SJ, Syed SU, Yang IS, Cole SW. A tale of two marital stressors: Comparing proinflammatory responses to partner distress and marital conflict. Brain Behav Immun 2024; 119:898-907. [PMID: 38718908 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2024.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Marital quality shares ties to inflammatory conditions like cardiovascular disease and diabetes. For decades, research has focused on marital conflict as a primary mechanism given its potential to trigger inflammatory responses. However, longitudinal evidence suggests that marital conflict declines over time, and little attention has been paid to the inflammatory aftermath of other types of marital exchanges. A spouse's emotional distress is an important but overlooked marital context, as partners are exposed to each other's upsetting emotions throughout adulthood. To directly compare reactivity in proinflammatory gene expression to these two marital stressors and to examine differences by age and marital satisfaction, 203 community adults ages 25-90 (N = 102 couples) provided blood samples and rated their negative mood before and after they 1) watched their partner relive an upsetting personal memory and, in a separate visit 1-2 weeks later, 2) discussed a conflictual topic in their relationship. Controlling for age, sex, race/ethnicity, BMI, alcohol use, smoking, and comorbidities, increases in proinflammatory gene expression were significantly larger after the partner's upsetting disclosure than after marital conflict (B = 0.073, SE = 0.031, p = .018). This pattern paralleled emotional reactivity to the tasks, wherein negative mood rose more in response to the partner's disclosure than to marital conflict (B = 4.305, SE = 1.468, p = .004). In sum, proinflammatory and mood reactivity to spousal distress exceeded reactivity to marital conflict, a well-established marital stressor. Findings reveal spousal distress as a novel mechanism that may link marriage to inflammation-related diseases, and even pose risks for both happy and unhappy couples across adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sumaiyah U Syed
- Department of Psychology, Southern Methodist University, USA
| | - Iris S Yang
- Department of Psychology, Southern Methodist University, USA
| | - Steve W Cole
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles School of Medicine, USA; Norman Cousins Center, University of California, Los Angeles School of Medicine, USA
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20
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Du Y, Luo Y, Ren Z, Gram LZ, Zheng X, Liu J. What impact does hearing impairment have on cognitive health in older married couples in China? Soc Sci Med 2024; 352:116999. [PMID: 38796949 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2024.116999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Hearing impairment is a common geriatric health problem and chronic stressor, and it is associated with poor cognitive outcomes. However, little is known about the impact of hearing impairment in married couples, particularly its potential spillover effects on the cognitive health among spouses of individuals with impairment. Drawing on a stress-proliferation perspective, we used actor-partner interdependence models to examine (1) whether an individual's hearing impairment influences their spouse's cognitive function; and (2) whether AL, symptoms of depression, and social participation serve as mediators for such an association. We utilized data from the 2015 (baseline) and 2018 (3-year follow-up) waves of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. 4434 couples were included at baseline, and 2190 couples remained after the 3-year follow-up. Hearing impairment among married women was associated with negative impacts on their spouses' cognitive function. Symptoms of depression and social participation may have served as potential mediators in this relationship. For married men, there was no statistically significant association between hearing impairment and spouses' cognitive function. Our findings suggest that hearing impairment among one spouse can lead to negative impacts on the other, but that this effect may depend on gender. Early diagnosis and couple-based interventions for hearing impairment are important for the cognitive health of both hearing-impaired individuals and their spouses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yushan Du
- Institute of Reproductive and Child Health / National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Peking University, Beijing, China; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yanan Luo
- Department of Global Health, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Ziyang Ren
- Institute of Reproductive and Child Health / National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Peking University, Beijing, China; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Lu Z Gram
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Xiaoying Zheng
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jufen Liu
- Institute of Reproductive and Child Health / National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Peking University, Beijing, China; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China.
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Kovács E, Rekenyi V, Nánási A, Szepesi CI, Indrayathi PA, Horváth N, Csirmaz A, Marjai G, Róbert KL. Lifestyle Medicine in Focus: A Cross-Sectional Study Comparing Domestic and International Students. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:1151. [PMID: 38891226 PMCID: PMC11171708 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12111151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
This study investigated lifestyle factors among Hungarian and international students, utilizing lifestyle medicine principles to enhance overall well-being. Conducted at the University of Debrecen through a cross-sectional survey, we examined selected lifestyle factors, more specifically sleep patterns, weight management, nutrition, physical activity, mental well-being, and alcohol use. Hungarian (N = 122) and international (N = 139) students were compared, revealing significant differences. Hungarian students slept less (p = 0.041), desired weight loss (p = 0.040), ate more fruits and vegetables (p = 0.014), exercised longer (p = 0.002), and reported higher purpose and social support (p = 0.009), with higher alcohol use (p < 0.001). These findings highlight distinct experiences and challenges faced by these student groups including variations in sleep, weight management, diet, exercise, and social support. Targeted interventions and tailored support are essential to address their specific needs. To promote the well-being of both Hungarian and international students, educational programs addressing various facets of a healthy lifestyle are crucial. This study offers valuable insights into lifestyle factors and health outcomes among Hungarian and international students and underscores the importance of addressing the unique needs of each group through tailored interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eszter Kovács
- Doctoral School of Health Sciences, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary (A.N.); (P.A.I.)
- Department of Family and Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Viktor Rekenyi
- Doctoral School of Health Sciences, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary (A.N.); (P.A.I.)
- Department of Family and Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Anna Nánási
- Doctoral School of Health Sciences, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary (A.N.); (P.A.I.)
- Department of Family and Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Csongor István Szepesi
- Doctoral School of Health Sciences, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary (A.N.); (P.A.I.)
- Department of Family and Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Putu Ayu Indrayathi
- Doctoral School of Health Sciences, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary (A.N.); (P.A.I.)
| | - Nóra Horváth
- Doctoral School of Health Sciences, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary (A.N.); (P.A.I.)
- Department of Family and Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Angéla Csirmaz
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Gréta Marjai
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Kolozsvári László Róbert
- Doctoral School of Health Sciences, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary (A.N.); (P.A.I.)
- Department of Family and Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
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Callan S, Ulrich GR, Wooldridge JS, Roberts S, Ranby KW. The development and psychometric examination of the partner investment in health scale. Psychol Health 2024; 39:786-802. [PMID: 35993380 DOI: 10.1080/08870446.2022.2112581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Relationship partners' impacts on health are not fully captured by existing measures. A measure that applies to a prevention context and accounts for both partners' perspectives is needed. This work developed and assessed the psychometric properties of the novel Partner Investment in Health scale (PI-H). DESIGN A cross-sectional design assessed participants (N = 261) using an online survey. Exploratory factor analyses were used to determine the PI-H factor structure. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Items assessed the person's investment in their partner's health and their perception of their partner's investment in their health. RESULTS A 2 factor structure underlying 24 items on the PI-H scale was supported. Factors represented 1) the respondent's investment and 2) the respondent's perception of their partner's investment. The PI-H significantly correlated with related measures (e.g. relationship satisfaction, dyadic and communal coping; p < .05). CONCLUSION A full PI-H scale, two subscales, and a short version of the scale (8 items) are presented. Correlations demonstrated convergent validity and suggested the PI-H is distinct from existing constructs. Theoretical implications and applications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jennalee S Wooldridge
- VA San Diego Healthcare System, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, United States
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Voßemer J, Baranowska-Rataj A, Heyne S, Loter K. Partner's unemployment and subjective well-being: The mediating role of relationship functioning. ADVANCES IN LIFE COURSE RESEARCH 2024; 60:100606. [PMID: 38547687 DOI: 10.1016/j.alcr.2024.100606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Unemployment affects not only the subjective well-being of the individual, but also that of the partner. Based on the life course perspective and the spillover-crossover-model, we examine the mediating role of relationship functioning for such crossover effects of partner's unemployment on subjective well-being. We also test whether gender differences in the mechanism of relationship functioning can explain the larger overall crossover effects on women compared to men. We use data from the German Family Panel pairfam (2008/09-2018/19), which provide more direct and comprehensive measures of relationship functioning than previous research, and allow us to examine couples' communication and interactions, their conflict styles and behaviors, relationship satisfaction, and perceived relationship instability as mediators. To analyze the impact of the partner's transition to unemployment on subjective well-being, we use fixed effects panel regression models and the product method of mediation analysis to estimate the indirect effects of relationship functioning. The results show that a partner's transition to unemployment has a negative impact on one's own well-being. The effects are more pronounced for women than men which can be partly explained by gender-specific effects of the partner's unemployment on various aspects of relationship functioning, rather than by differential effects of the latter on one's own well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Voßemer
- University of Mannheim, Mannheim Centre for European Social Research (MZES), Germany
| | | | - Stefanie Heyne
- University of Mannheim, Mannheim Centre for European Social Research (MZES), Germany
| | - Katharina Loter
- Tilburg University, Tilburg School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Department of Methodology and Statistics, the Netherlands
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Nicoloro-SantaBarbara J, Lobel M. Loneliness and Its Predictors in Rare Versus Common Chronic Illnesses. Int J Behav Med 2024; 31:422-432. [PMID: 37845486 DOI: 10.1007/s12529-023-10231-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Loneliness is a growing public health concern associated with substantial negative mental and physical health outcomes. Loneliness is especially relevant for individuals with a chronic illness, perhaps more so if their illness is rare. Little is known about the psychosocial experience of individuals with a rare chronic illness, and whether and how it may differ from the experience of individuals with common chronic illnesses. We compared the magnitude of loneliness in persons with a rare or common chronic illness and examined theoretically guided predictors of loneliness as follows: stigma, illness intrusiveness, social comparison, social support, support from healthcare providers, and self-efficacy. METHOD Individuals with a chronic illness (common or rare) completed an anonymous online survey (N = 952). RESULTS Individuals with common chronic illnesses were as lonely as those with a rare chronic illness. Loneliness in both groups was higher than that in population norms. Regression analyses reveal that independent of other predictors, loneliness was especially high among people who feel stigmatized by others, those who have less social support available, and people whose functioning is more disrupted by their illness (all p values < 0.01). CONCLUSION The similarity of loneliness in these groups reinforces the value of further systematic research to identify the needs of individuals with any type of chronic illness. Study findings highlight the importance of examining internalized stigma and social support as possible targets of intervention to reduce loneliness among individuals with a chronic illness, recognizing some of the unique features and challenges of their disorders, whether common or rare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Nicoloro-SantaBarbara
- Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
| | - Marci Lobel
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794-2500, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, USA
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25
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Wilson SJ, Marini CM. Older Adults' Social Profiles and Links to Functional and Biological Aging in the United States and Mexico. Psychosom Med 2024; 86:387-397. [PMID: 37678359 DOI: 10.1097/psy.0000000000001248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Social stress-loneliness, isolation, and low relationship quality-increase risks of aging-related diseases. However, the ways in which they intersect to undermine healthy aging remain poorly understood. We used latent class analysis to identify groups of older adults based on their social stress in both the United States and Mexico. Thereafter, we examined their cross-sectional associations with markers of functional and biological aging. METHOD Participants in the Health and Retirement Study (HRS; N = 8316) and Mexican Health and Aging Study (MHAS; N = 15,001) reported their loneliness, isolation (i.e., living alone), and relationship quality with spouse, children, and friends. Outcomes included C-reactive protein, functional limitations, self-rated health, comorbidities, gait speed, and grip strength. Models controlled for demographics, health behaviors, and body mass index. RESULTS In both countries, five classes emerged, a supported group and four with elevated social stress: a) strained, b) isolated, c) spousal ambivalence, and d) unhappily married. Compared with the others, strained participants in both samples had greater functional limitations, poorer self-rated health, and more comorbidities, as well as slower gait in HRS and weaker grip in MHAS. Generally, supported participants fared better than the other groups. In HRS, C-reactive protein levels differed between the strained group and others, but these associations were explained by health behaviors and body mass index. CONCLUSIONS Older adults in both countries with strained relationships fared worst in their aging-related outcomes, revealing new insights about the links between toxic social stress and unhealthy aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie J Wilson
- From the Department of Psychology (Wilson), Southern Methodist University, Dallas, Texas; and Gordon F. Derner School of Psychology (Marini), Adelphi University, Garden City, New York
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Birmingham WC, Herr RM, Cressman M, Patel N, Hung M. While You Are Sleeping: Marital Ambivalence and Blunted Nocturnal Blood Pressure. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 21:723. [PMID: 38928969 PMCID: PMC11204195 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21060723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Marital relationships offer health benefits, including a lower risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, quality of the relationship matters; ambivalent behaviors may increase CVD risk by affecting blunted nocturnal blood pressure (BP) dipping. This study tracked daytime and nocturnal SBP and DBP in 180 normotensive individuals (90 couples; participant mean age 25.04; 91.58% white) over a 24 h period using ambulatory blood pressure monitors to explore the impact of martial quality. Results showed that perceptions of spousal ambivalence were associated with blunted nocturnal BP dipping. Perceptions of one's own behavior as ambivalent also showed blunted nocturnal dipping. When in an ambivalent relationship, a gender interaction was found such that women were most likely to have blunted SBP dipping, but men were more likely to have blunted nocturnal DBP dipping. Overall, this study found an association between ambivalence and BP dipping, thus uncovering one virtually unexplored pathway by which marital relationships may have adverse effects on health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Raphael M. Herr
- Department of Medical Informatics, Biometry and Epidemiology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany;
| | - Mikel Cressman
- Psychology Department, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA;
| | - Neha Patel
- College of Dental Medicine, Roseman University of Health Sciences, South Jordan, UT 84095, USA (M.H.)
| | - Man Hung
- College of Dental Medicine, Roseman University of Health Sciences, South Jordan, UT 84095, USA (M.H.)
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery Operations, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA
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27
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Masarik AS, Rogers CR. Behavioral pathways from sibling relationships in adolescence to romantic partnerships in adulthood. JOURNAL OF RESEARCH ON ADOLESCENCE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR RESEARCH ON ADOLESCENCE 2024. [PMID: 38783833 DOI: 10.1111/jora.12974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Sibling relationships in adolescence provide rich and relevant socializing opportunities for developing early adult romantic relationships, but much less is known regarding the effect of siblings on future romantic partnerships. Using a prospective, longitudinal design, we investigated the association between observed positive behaviors (warmth, support, positive communication), sibling pairs during adolescence (7th, 8th, 9th, and 10th grades), and the same observed behaviors between adult romantic partners nearly two decades later (M age = 31 years old). In structural equation models (SEMs), we tested four dyadic pathways of interest: (1) individual behavioral continuity; (2) evocative partner effects; (3) sibling modeling; and (4) sibling-to-partner matching. In multiple group analyses, we also investigated gendered socialization effects for different sibling dyads (i.e., brother-brother; sister-sister; and mixed-sex sibling pairs). Results showed strong continuity from adolescent behavior toward their sibling to the same behavior toward their romantic partner in early adulthood, but there was no evidence for sibling modeling effects nor for sibling matching. We also found significant differences between sister-sister sibling dyads compared to brother-brother and mixed-sex sibling dyads for the evocative pathway. Findings highlight the "long view" of positive adolescent behavior in sibling relationships for shaping future romantic partnerships in adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- April S Masarik
- Department of Psychological Science, Boise State University, Boise, Idaho, USA
| | - Christy R Rogers
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas, USA
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Pollak C, Verghese J, Blumen HM. Loneliness predicts decreased physical activity in widowed but not married or unmarried individuals. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1295128. [PMID: 38756882 PMCID: PMC11096491 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1295128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Physical activity is associated with improved health and function in older adults, yet most older adults are sedentary. Loneliness is associated with decreased physical activity at the cross-section, but longitudinal studies are scarce. We examined longitudinal associations between loneliness and physical activity-and whether they were modified by marital status and network size (the number of children, relatives, and friends a person interacts with at least once a month). Methods We analyzed data from 1,931 older adults without dementia at baseline from the Rush Memory and Aging Project with a mean follow-up of 4.8 years (mean age 79.6 ± 7.7, 74.9% women). Loneliness was assessed using the de Jong Gierveld Loneliness Scale. Physical activity was assessed as the frequency with which participants engaged in five categories of activities (e.g., walking, gardening, calisthenics, bicycling, and swimming). Linear mixed effects models examined associations between baseline loneliness and change in physical activity over time after adjusting for demographics, depressive symptoms, global cognition, disability, network size, marital status, social support, and social and cognitive activities. We assessed for effect modification by marital status and network size. Results Associations between loneliness and physical activity differed by marital status. In widowed individuals, baseline loneliness was associated with a 0.06 h/week greater decrease in physical activity per year compared to those who were not lonely (p = 0.005, CI -0.1, 0.02)-which equaled a 150% decrease in physical activity per year. Loneliness did not predict a statistically significant decrease in physical activity in married or unmarried individuals. Discussion Loneliness is associated with decreased physical activity in widowed older adults and should be considered in the design of interventions to prevent or slow the decline in physical activity and promote healthy aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chava Pollak
- Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States
| | - Joe Verghese
- Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States
- Department of Neurology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States
| | - Helena M. Blumen
- Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States
- Department of Neurology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States
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Zhang D. Spousal health, marital satisfaction, and older Chinese adults' sleep: The moderating role of psychological resilience. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2024; 120:105329. [PMID: 38237378 DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2024.105329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSES This study aims to examine the moderating role of psychological resilience in the association between two common marital relationship stressors (poor spousal health and low marital satisfaction) and sleep (sleep quality and sleep duration) among older adults in China. METHODS This study used four waves of data from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (2008-2018) (N = 8769), and mixed-effects logistic models were used. RESULTS Poor spousal health and low marital satisfaction were independently associated with increased odds of poor sleep quality and short sleep duration, and decreased odds of long sleep duration. Greater psychological resilience was associated with increased odds of good sleep quality and decreased odds of short sleep duration, but had no significant effect on long sleep duration. In addition, psychological resilience moderated the odds of poor spousal health and low marital satisfaction on the risk of short sleep duration among older Chinese adults. CONCLUSION The findings provide novel evidence for the increased importance of marital stress and psychological resilience on sleep health in later life. Policy interventions are needed to support vulnerable older adults who experience poor spousal health and/or low marital satisfaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Zhang
- School of Public Administration, Hohai University, West Focheng Rd No.8, Nanjing, 211100, PR China.
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30
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Huang X, Tey NP, Lai SL. Unraveling the Impact of Widowhood Duration on Depression: Does Time Heal All Wounds? Asia Pac J Public Health 2024:10105395241244960. [PMID: 38590147 DOI: 10.1177/10105395241244960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
China's aging population has witnessed a surge in widowed older adults, raising concerns about their mental health. Losing a spouse is a profoundly distressing experience with enduring effects on well-being. Despite the proverbial belief in time's healing power, existing studies often neglect the potential decline in depressive symptoms during widowhood. Drawing data from the 2015 and 2018 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study, this study delves into the impact of widowhood duration on depression among 8370 older adults and uncovered significantly higher depression scores among widowed individuals, particularly in the initial 3 years. The research reveals that widowhood contributes to heightened depression levels even after accounting for sociodemographic factors. Although the depressive impact lessens over time, it persists beyond 3 years, underscoring the need for heightened awareness and support for this vulnerable population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuehao Huang
- Faculty of Business and Economics, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Nai Peng Tey
- Population Studies Unit, Faculty of Business and Economics, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Institute for Population and Social Research, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Siow Li Lai
- Population Studies Unit, Faculty of Business and Economics, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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31
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Don BP, Gordon AM, Mendes WB. The Good, the Bad, and the Variable: Examining Stress and Blood Pressure Responses to Close Relationships. SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGICAL AND PERSONALITY SCIENCE 2024; 15:288-298. [PMID: 38883257 PMCID: PMC11178353 DOI: 10.1177/19485506231156018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Social relationships influence physical health, yet questions remain regarding the nature of this association. For instance, when it comes to predicting health-relevant processes in daily life, few studies have examined (a) the relative importance of both positive and negative relational experiences, and (b) variability in relational experiences (in addition to mean levels). To address these gaps, we conducted a daily study (N = 4,005; ~ 30,000 observations) examining relationships, stress, and physiology in daily life. Heart rate and blood pressure were assessed using an optic sensor and integrated with an app-based study. Results demonstrated that higher mean levels of positive and lower mean levels of negative relational experiences predicted lower stress, better coping, and better physiological functioning in daily life, such as lower systolic blood pressure reactivity. Greater variability in negative (but not positive) relational experiences predicted lower stress, better coping, and lower systolic blood pressure reactivity.
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32
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Harper KT, Stanley F, Sidari MJ, Lee AJ, Zietsch BP. The Role of Accurate Self-Assessments in Optimizing Mate Choice. PERSONALITY AND SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY BULLETIN 2024; 50:587-596. [PMID: 36541343 DOI: 10.1177/01461672221135955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2023]
Abstract
Individuals are thought to seek the best possible romantic partner in exchange for their own desirability. We investigated whether individuals' self-evaluations were related to their partner choices and whether the accuracy of these self-evaluations was associated with mating outcomes. Participants (N = 1,354) took part in a speed-dating study where they rated themselves and others on mate value and indicated their willingness to date each potential partner. Individuals were somewhat accurate in their self-evaluations, and these self-evaluations were associated with individuals' revealed minimum and maximum standards for a potential partner, but not the number of partners they were interested in. Participants who overestimated their mate value were accepted by an equivalent number of partners compared with under-estimators, but the over-estimators were choosier and thus ended up with fewer (but similarly attractive) reciprocal matches. Results support social exchange theory and the matching hypothesis, and contrast findings that self-enhancement facilitates positive social outcomes.
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Kurniawan AL, Schretzmann J, Paramastri R, Cho A, Sié A, Fischer MS, Bärnighausen T, Ditzen B. Relationship satisfaction and metabolic health parameters: a cross-sectional study in Burkinabe population of older adults. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:827. [PMID: 38491462 PMCID: PMC10943782 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-17998-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Over- and undernutrition coexist in many African countries and pose a threat to metabolic health. This study assessed the associations between relationship satisfaction and Body Mass Index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), in a rural population of older adults in Burkina Faso. It also explored potential gender differences and the mediating role of depressive symptoms. METHODS Data from the "Centre de Recherche en Santé de Nouna (CRSN) Heidelberg Aging Study (CHAS)," a cross-sectional population-based study conducted in 2018 in Burkina Faso, were used in our study. Hierarchical linear regression models were applied for each of the three outcome variables. Among 2291 participants aged 40 years or older who provided data on relationship satisfaction, 2221, 2223, and 2145 participants had BMI, waist circumference (WC), and HbA1c values respectively. RESULTS Higher relationship satisfaction (CSI-4 score) was associated with increased BMI (β = 0.05, p = 0.031) and WC (β = 0.12, p = 0.039). However, the association of CSI-4 and BMI became non-significant after controlling for depressive symptoms (PHQ-9 score) and physical inactivity (BMI: β = 0.04, p = 0.073). Depressive symptoms fully mediated the relationship between relationship satisfaction and BMI (β = -0.07, p = 0.005). There was no significant association between relationship satisfaction and HbA1c. These results were consistent across genders and age groups. CONCLUSION Higher relationship satisfaction may lead to increased body weight among Burkinabe adults aged 40 years and older, and depressive symptoms may be a mediator in this association.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adi Lukas Kurniawan
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Julius Schretzmann
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Rathi Paramastri
- School of Nutrition and Health Sciences, College of Nutrition, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Alyssa Cho
- Epidemiology, Public Health, and Impact, International Vaccine Institute, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Ali Sié
- Centre de Recherche en Santé de Nouna, Nouna, Burkina Faso
| | - Melanie S Fischer
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Psychology, University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Till Bärnighausen
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany.
- Africa Health Research Institute (AHRI), KwaZulu-Natal, Somkhele, South Africa.
| | - Beate Ditzen
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany.
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Chen Q, Zhu X, Hu Y, Chen Y, Dai R, Li J, Zhuang J, Lin Y, Zeng Y, You L, Zeng Y, Huang Q. A study on the impact of marital status on the survival status of prostate cancer patients based on propensity score matching. Sci Rep 2024; 14:6162. [PMID: 38485743 PMCID: PMC10940582 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-56145-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Marital status is an independent prognostic factor for survival in many types of cancers, but its prognostic impact on patients with prostate cancer (PCa) has not been established. The aim of this study was to explore the independent prognostic factors of PCa and to investigate the effect of marital status on survival outcomes in patients with different stratified by PCa. Using the surveillance, epidemiology, and end results (SEER) database, we collected data on 584,655 PCa patients diagnosed between 1975 and 2019. Marital status was classified as married, divorced, widowed, and single. We used the Kaplan-Meier analysis and single multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression analysis to determine the effect of marital status on overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS). In addition, we performed subgroup analyses for different ages, Gleason score and PSA values, and performed a 1:1 propensity score matching (PSM) to reduce the impact of confounding factors to obtain more accurate matching results. According to our findings, marital status was an independent prognostic factor for the survival of PCa patients and a better prognosis of married patients. Moreover, we also found that factors such as age, TNM stage, Gleason score, and PSA concentration were also considered as important predictors for the prognosis of PCa. The above findings can facilitate early detection and treatment of high-risk PCa patients, prolong their life and reduce family burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingquan Chen
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, 362000, Fujian, China
- The School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350108, Fujian, China
| | - Xi Zhu
- The School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350108, Fujian, China
| | - Yiming Hu
- The School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350108, Fujian, China
- National Center for Chronic and Noncommunicable Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Yao Chen
- The School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350108, Fujian, China
| | - Rongrong Dai
- The School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350108, Fujian, China
| | - Jiaxin Li
- Anyang University, Anyang, 455000, Henan, China
| | - Jiajing Zhuang
- The School of Clinical Medicine, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350108, Fujian, China
| | - Yifei Lin
- The School of Clinical Medicine, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350108, Fujian, China
| | - Yifu Zeng
- Cyberspace Institute of Advanced Technology, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Liuxia You
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, 362000, Fujian, China
| | - Yanyu Zeng
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, 362000, Fujian, China.
| | - Qian Huang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, 362000, Fujian, China.
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35
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Wei M, Adler-Baeder F, McGill JM, Novak JR. Healthy couple, better sleep: Exploring connections and changes in couple relationship education participants. FAMILY PROCESS 2024. [PMID: 38459791 DOI: 10.1111/famp.12987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
Considerable evidence suggests couple relationship education (CRE) programs are effective in improving couples' relationship functioning, yet few studies have examined the implications of CRE programs on indicators of physical health despite substantial research supporting links between relational and physical health. This study utilized a sample of 308 couples randomly assigned to a CRE curriculum to explore the dyadic links between conflict management and self-care skills (emphasized in CRE), stress, and sleep dysfunction concurrently. We prospectively tested whether changes in skills drove changes in sleep dysfunction or vice versa, for both self and partner. Results from a series of structural equation models indicated indirect links for men and women between conflict management and self-care skills and sleep dysfunction through lower stress level at program start. Dyadically, men's and women's better conflict management skills were associated with partners' lower stress, which was in turn associated with partners' lower sleep dysfunction. Men's better self-care skills were linked with partners' lower stress levels, which were linked with partners' lower sleep dysfunction. Tests of dyadic prospective cross-lagged effects among changes in sleep and changes in skills indicated that initial improvements in both partners' sleep predicted improvements in their own conflict management skills 1 year later. Initial improvements in women's conflict management skills predicted reduced sleep dysfunction for themselves. Additionally, for both partners, early changes in self-care predicted later reductions in sleep dysfunction. Dyadically, immediate improvements in men's self-care predicted reduced sleep dysfunction for their partner a year later. Implications for research and practice are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menglin Wei
- Department of Human Development and Family Science, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
| | - Francesca Adler-Baeder
- Department of Human Development and Family Science, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
| | - Julianne M McGill
- Department of Human Development and Family Science, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
| | - Josh R Novak
- Department of Human Development and Family Science, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
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Li C, Xia Y, Wang L. Household unclean fuel use, indoor pollution and self-rated health: risk assessment of environmental pollution caused by energy poverty from a public health perspective. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:18030-18053. [PMID: 37217815 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-27676-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
The lack of access to clean energy remains one of the major challenges in the global energy sector. Access to clean, sustainable and affordable energy, outlined in the seventh Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 7) of the United Nations, plays a crucial role in advancing health (SDG 3), as unclean cooking energy may endanger people's health by causing air pollution. However, due to endogeneity problems such as reverse causality, the health consequences of environmental pollution caused by unclean fuel usage are difficult to be scientifically and accurately evaluated. This paper aims to systematically assess the health cost of unclean fuel usage based on tackling endogeneity, using the data from Chinese General Social Survey. The ordinary least squares model, ordered regression methods, instrumental variable approach, penalized machine learning methods, placebo test, and mediation models are applied in this research. Analytical results demonstrate that households' unclean fuel use significantly damages people's health. Specifically, the use of dirty fuel leads to an average of about a one-standard-deviation decline in self-rated health, demonstrating its notable negative effect. The findings are robust to a series of robustness and endogeneity tests. The impact mechanism is that unclean fuel usage reduces people's self-rated health through increasing indoor pollution. Meanwhile, the negative effect of dirty fuel use on health has significant heterogeneity among different subgroups. The consequences are more prominent for the vulnerable groups who are female, younger, living in rural areas and older buildings, with lower socio-economic status and uncovered by social security. Therefore, necessary measures should be taken to improve energy infrastructure to make clean cooking energy more affordable and accessible as well as to enhance people's health. Besides, more attention should be paid to the energy needs of the above specific vulnerable groups faced with energy poverty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Li
- Business School, Shandong University, No. 180 Wenhuaxi Road, Weihai, 264209, China.
| | - Yuxin Xia
- HSBC Business School, Peking University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Lin Wang
- Glorious Sun School of Business and Management, Donghua University, Shanghai, China
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Belus JM, Hines AC, Magidson JF, Iwamoto D, Rose AL, Li A, Barnabas RV, van Heerden A. Development and Empirical Test of the Research-Informed South African Relationship Functioning Assessment (SARFA). PERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS 2024; 31:44-66. [PMID: 38708292 PMCID: PMC11068037 DOI: 10.1111/pere.12522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Intimate partners play an important role in chronic diseases. Despite the chronic disease burden increase in sub-Saharan Africa, very few culturally-relevant quantitative measures of intimate relationship functioning are available. We conducted an empirical investigation evaluating the psychometric properties of the South African Relationship Functioning Assessment (SARFA) assessing healthy relationship functioning in N = 150 community members (50% women; M age = 27.2 years) living in the Vulindlela area of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Item development was based on prior qualitative research from two South African communities. All assessments were conducted in isiZulu, participants' primary language. An exploratory factor analysis was conducted on the initial 39-item measure. The best-fitting model consisted of one factor with 22 items. The SARFA's internal consistency was α = .94. Convergent validity was observed via significant positive associations (all rs ≥ .38, p < .001) between the SARFA's total score and measures of trust, emotional intimacy, constructive communication, sexual satisfaction, and relationship control (women only). Divergent validity was observed for women only. Encouraging initial psychometric properties of a culturally-relevant measure of relationship functioning in KwaZulu-Natal may have relevance to other communities and potential to be used in research involving couples and health in chronic disease-burdened communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer M Belus
- University Hospital Basel, Department of Clinical Research, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Maryland, Department of Psychology, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Abigail C Hines
- University of Maryland, Department of Psychology, College Park, MD, USA
| | | | - Derek Iwamoto
- University of Maryland, Department of Psychology, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Alexandra L Rose
- University of Maryland, Department of Psychology, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Alison Li
- Orlando Regional Medical Center, Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit, Orlando, FL, USA
| | - Ruanne V Barnabas
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Alastair van Heerden
- Centre for Community Based Research, Human Sciences Research Council, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
- SAMRC/WITS Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
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Kurihara Y, Takahashi T, Osu R. The topology of interpersonal neural network in weak social ties. Sci Rep 2024; 14:4961. [PMID: 38418895 PMCID: PMC11336176 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-55495-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The strategies for social interaction between strangers differ from those between acquaintances, whereas the differences in neural basis of social interaction have not been fully elucidated. In this study, we examined the geometrical properties of interpersonal neural networks in pairs of strangers and acquaintances during antiphase joint tapping. Dual electroencephalogram (EEG) of 29 channels per participant was measured from 14 strangers and 13 acquaintance pairs.Intra-brain synchronizations were calculated using the weighted phase lag index (wPLI) for intra-brain electrode combinations, and inter-brain synchronizations were calculated using the phase locking value (PLV) for inter-brain electrode combinations in the theta, alpha, and beta frequency bands. For each participant pair, electrode combinations with larger wPLI/PLV than their surrogates were defined as the edges of the neural networks. We calculated global efficiency, local efficiency, and modularity derived from graph theory for the combined intra- and inter-brain networks of each pair. In the theta band networks, stranger pairs showed larger local efficiency than acquaintance pairs, indicating that the two brains of stranger pairs were more densely connected. Hence, weak social ties require extensive social interactions and result in high efficiency of information transfer between neighbors in neural network.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuto Kurihara
- Graduate School of Human Sciences, Waseda University, Tokorozawa, Saitama, Japan
| | - Toru Takahashi
- Advanced Research Center for Human Sciences, Waseda University, Tokorozawa, Saitama, Japan
| | - Rieko Osu
- Faculty of Human Sciences, Waseda University, 2-579-15 Mikajima, Tokorozawa, Saitama, Japan.
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A Novel, Network-Based Approach to Assessing Romantic-Relationship Quality. PERSPECTIVES ON PSYCHOLOGICAL SCIENCE 2024:17456916231215248. [PMID: 38386418 DOI: 10.1177/17456916231215248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
How should romantic-relationship quality be approached psychometrically? This is a complicated theoretical and methodological challenge that we begin to address through three studies. In Study 1a, we identified 25 distinct romantic-relationship categories among 754 items from 26 romantic-relationship-quality instruments with a weak Jaccard index (0.38), indicating that the scales' item content was extremely heterogeneous. Study 1b then demonstrated limited structure validity evidence in 43 scale-development-validation articles of 23 of these 26 instruments. Finally, Study 2 surveyed 587 French-speaking participants in a romantic relationship on romantic-relationship quality. Applying a network-based model, we identified four dimensions, three of which are central to relationship quality. The inferences were mostly limited to French-speaking, monogamous, heterosexual women. To resolve challenges detected in the literature, we recommend a multicountry qualitative approach, more diverse sampling, better definitions of romantic-relationship quality, and a dynamic-systems approach to measuring romantic-relationship quality.
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Gautam N, Rahman MM, Hashmi R, Lim A, Khanam R. Socioeconomic inequalities in child and adolescent mental health in Australia: the role of parenting style and parents' relationships. Child Adolesc Psychiatry Ment Health 2024; 18:28. [PMID: 38383394 PMCID: PMC10882797 DOI: 10.1186/s13034-024-00719-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Socioeconomic inequalities in health and their determinants have been studied extensively over the past few decades. However, the role of parenting style and parents' couple relationships in explaining mental health inequalities is limited. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the distributional impact of parenting style (angry parenting, consistent parenting, and inductive parenting) and parents' couple relationships (e.g., argumentative, happy relationships) on socioeconomic inequalities and by extension on mental health status of Australian children and adolescents. METHODS This study utilized data from the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children (Waves 1-7), specifically focusing on intact biological parent families, while excluding single-parent and blended-family households. We applied the decomposition index and the Blinder Oaxaca method to investigate the extent of the contribution and temporal impact of parenting style and parents' couple relationships on the mental health status of Australian children and adolescents. RESULTS This study revealed that poor parenting style is the single most important factor that leads to developing mental health difficulties in children and adolescents, especially from low socioeconomic status, and it contributes almost 52% to socioeconomic inequalities in mental health status. Conversely, household income, maternal education, employment status, and parents' couple relationships contributed 28.04%, 10.67%, 9.28%, and 3.34%, respectively, to mental health inequalities in children and adolescents. CONCLUSION Overall, this study underscores the importance of parenting style and parents' couple relationships as significant predictors of mental health outcomes in children and adolescents. These results highlight the need for targeted interventions to support families from low socioeconomic backgrounds to address the significant mental health inequalities observed in the study population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nirmal Gautam
- School of Business, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, 4350, Australia.
- The Centre for Health Research, The University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, 4350, Australia.
| | - Mohammad Mafizur Rahman
- School of Business, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, 4350, Australia
- The Centre for Health Research, The University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, 4350, Australia
| | - Rubayyat Hashmi
- School of Business, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, 4350, Australia
- The Australian Centre for Housing Research, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, 5005, Australia
- NGRN, The ALIVE National Centre for Mental Health Research Translation, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Apiradee Lim
- Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, Faculty of Science and Technology, Prince of Songkla University, Pattani, 94000, Thailand
| | - Rasheda Khanam
- School of Business, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, 4350, Australia
- The Centre for Health Research, The University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, 4350, Australia
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Kumaria S, Fivecoat H, Li J, Scott B, Sher TG. Pressurizing or encouraging: Health behaviors among long-distance couples. FAMILY PROCESS 2024. [PMID: 38369304 DOI: 10.1111/famp.12975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Couples in long-distance relationships face unique challenges that affect their health outcomes and relationship dynamics in ways that are different from couples in close proximal relationships (PR). The results of previous literature analyzing health outcomes for long-distance relationship (LDR) couples have been mixed, and factors such as couple satisfaction and gender of the individuals contribute to the variance. This study examined the good health practices of couples in LDRs, the ways in which partners influence each other's health, and the health outcomes of these couples as compared to couples in PRs. Multilevel multivariate analysis showed that couples in LDRs had better health practices than those in PRs, and men overall had poorer health practices than women. There was no main effect seen for LDRs when we examined strategies used for influencing health. There was a main effect for gender, though, and we found that women tend to use more collaborative and pressurizing strategies for influencing their partner's health. On health indices, we found that LDR couples tended to have lower levels of fatigue and sleep disturbance as compared to PR couples. In the adjusted model with covariates, which included age, income, couple satisfaction, and married or unmarried couples, we found that lower couple satisfaction and lower income significantly predicted poorer health on all health indices. These results are discussed in light of unequal gender roles, social control, and positive aspects of LDRs on health in an attempt to understand LDRs better and destigmatize the narrative of these relationships as 'less than' PRs. Implications for health and mental health practitioners are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shveta Kumaria
- The Family Institute at Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, USA
| | - Hayley Fivecoat
- The Family Institute at Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, USA
- Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, USA
| | - Jessie Li
- Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, USA
| | | | - Tamara Goldman Sher
- The Family Institute at Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, USA
- Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, USA
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Ruark A, Bidwell JT, Butterfield R, Weiser SD, Neilands TB, Mulauzi N, Mkandawire J, Conroy AA. "I too have a responsibility for my partner's life": Communal coping among Malawian couples living with HIV and cardiometabolic disorders. Soc Sci Med 2024; 342:116540. [PMID: 38199009 PMCID: PMC10913151 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2023.116540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
RATIONALE HIV and cardiometabolic disorders including hypertension and diabetes pose a serious double threat in Malawi. Supportive couple relationships may be an important resource for managing these conditions. According to the theory of communal coping, couples will more effectively manage illness if they view the illness as "our problem" (shared illness appraisal) and are united in shared behavioral efforts. METHODS This study qualitatively investigated communal coping of 25 couples living with HIV and hypertension or diabetes in Zomba, Malawi. Partners were interviewed separately regarding relationship quality, shared illness appraisal, communal coping, and dyadic management of illness. RESULTS Most participants (80%) were living with HIV, and more than half were also living with hypertension. Most participants expressed high levels of unity and the view that illness was "our problem." In some couples, partners expected but did not extend help and support and reported little collaboration. Communal coping and dyadic management were strongly gendered. Some women reported a one-sided support relationship in which they gave but did not receive support. Women were also more likely to initiate support interactions and offered more varied support than men. In couples with poor relationship quality and weak communal coping, dyadic management of illness was also weak. Partner support was particularly crucial for dietary changes, as women typically prepared meals for the entire family. Other lifestyle changes that could be supported or hindered by a partner included exercise, stress reduction, and medication adherence. CONCLUSION We conclude that gendered power imbalances may influence the extent to which couple-level ideals translate into actual communal coping and health behaviors. Given that spouses and families of patients are also at risk due to shared environments, we call for a shift from an illness management paradigm to a paradigm of optimizing health for spouses and families regardless of diabetes or hypertension diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison Ruark
- Wheaton College, Biological and Health Sciences, Wheaton, IL, USA.
| | - Julie T Bidwell
- University of California Davis, Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Rita Butterfield
- University of California San Francisco, Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Sheri D Weiser
- University of California San Francisco, Division of HIV, Infectious Disease, and Global Medicine, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Torsten B Neilands
- University of California San Francisco, Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Amy A Conroy
- University of California San Francisco, Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Finzi-Dottan R, Gewirtz-Meydan A. In Love With a Trauma Survivor: When a History of Childhood Abuse Interferes With Relationship Satisfaction Among Couples. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2024; 39:541-568. [PMID: 37731352 DOI: 10.1177/08862605231198009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
To date, the majority of research examining the effect of childhood abuse on relational aspects in adulthood is almost exclusively based on intraindividual data. The current study explores a moderating-mediating model from a dyadic perspective, examining the mediating effect that perceived intimacy has on the associations between concern couple caregiving and relationship satisfaction. It further investigates whether these mediation paths are moderated by a history of childhood abuse (physical/emotional/sexual). A total of 143 nonclinical couples (n = 286) in enduring relationships were recruited. A moderated mediation actor-partner interdependence model (moderated mediation actor-partner interdependence model (APIM)) comprised of three segments, was conducted. Results indicated that intimacy mediated the link between concern caregiving and relationship satisfaction on the actor's level, with effects applying equally to both husbands and wives. A higher level of intimacy among husbands and wives alike is linked, in turn, with higher relationship satisfaction. The path between actors' concern caregiving and their level of intimacy was moderated by the actors' childhood emotional and physical abuse; specifically, concern caregiving exerts greater effect on intimacy among participants who experienced high levels of emotional abuse, or low levels of physical abuse. Our findings highlight how different types of childhood abuse affect adult romantic relationships differently.
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Silva RJG, Grippa WR, Pessanha RM, Enriquez-Martinez OG, Neto LCBS, Lopes-Júnior LC. Neutrophil/Lymphocyte Ratio and Platelet/Lymphocyte Ratio and Their Relationship with Nutritional Status and Quality of Life of Hospitalized Women with Breast Cancer. Nutr Cancer 2024; 76:296-304. [PMID: 38287698 DOI: 10.1080/01635581.2024.2304689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
Blood cell biomarkers, such as the neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and the platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), have been recently used as prognostic markers in tumors. In this study, we investigated the association between NLR and PLR with sociodemographic, clinical, anthropometric, and quality of life factors of hospitalized women with non-metastatic breast cancer. A cross-sectional observational study was conducted at a reference center for oncological treatment in Southeast Brazil. Female participants aged over 18 years, with a histopathological diagnosis of stage I, II or III breast cancer, in any phase of antineoplastic treatment, were included. Our study revealed a high risk for participants, with high mean values of NLR and PLR, indicating low antitumor activity and worse prognosis. The binary logistic regression model showed that there was a significant association of the NLR marker and marital status (OR = 3.1; 95%CI = 1.06-8.57; p = 0.03) and, in relation to PLR, a trend was shown for a higher chance in women of black ethnicity to have increased PLR compared to white women (OR = 4.13; 95%CI = 0.96-17.70; p = 0.05). However, the inflammatory markers (NLR and PLR) did not show any significant association with nutritional factors. NLR and PLR are inflammatory biomarkers that can be easily obtained and measured in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Júnio Gomes Silva
- Graduate Program in Nutrition and Health at the Federal University of Espírito Santo (UFES), Vitoria, ES, Brazil
| | - Wesley Rocha Grippa
- Graduate Program in Public Health at the Federal University of Espírito Santo (UFES), Vitoria, ES, Brazil
| | - Raphael Manhães Pessanha
- Graduate Program in Public Health at the Federal University of Espírito Santo (UFES), Vitoria, ES, Brazil
| | | | | | - Luís Carlos Lopes-Júnior
- Graduate Program in Nutrition and Health at the Federal University of Espírito Santo (UFES), Vitoria, ES, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Public Health at the Federal University of Espírito Santo (UFES), Vitoria, ES, Brazil
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Allen JP, Costello MA, Pettit C, Bailey NA, Stern JA. Unique roles of adolescents' friends and fathers in predicting verbal aggression in future adult romantic relationships. Dev Psychopathol 2024:1-10. [PMID: 38247344 PMCID: PMC11260905 DOI: 10.1017/s0954579423001670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
This 20-year prospective study examined verbal aggression and intense conflict within the family of origin and between adolescents and their close friends as predictors of future verbal aggression in adult romantic relationships. A diverse community sample of 154 individuals was assessed repeatedly from age 13 to 34 years using self-, parent, peer, and romantic partner reports. As hypothesized, verbal aggression in adult romantic relationships was best predicted by both paternal verbal aggression toward mothers and by intense conflict within adolescent close friendships, with each factor contributing unique variance to explaining adult romantic verbal aggression. These factors also interacted, such that paternal verbal aggression was predictive of future romantic verbal aggression only in the context of co-occurring intense conflict between an adolescent and their closest friend. Predictions remained robust even after accounting for levels of parental abusive behavior toward the adolescent, levels of physical violence between parents, and the overall quality of the adolescent's close friendship. Results indicate the critical importance of exposure to aggression and conflict within key horizontal relationships in adolescence. Implications for early identification of risk as well as for potential preventive interventions are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Corey Pettit
- University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
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Murray SL, Pascuzzi GS. Pursuing Safety in Social Connection: A Flexibly Fluid Perspective on Risk Regulation in Relationships. Annu Rev Psychol 2024; 75:379-404. [PMID: 37585668 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-psych-011123-024815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
People are fundamentally motivated to be included in social connections that feel safe, connections where they are consistently cared for and protected, not hurt or exploited. Romantic relationships have long played a crucial role in satisfying this fundamental need. This article reconceptualizes the risk-regulation model to argue that people draw on experiences from inside and outside their romantic relationships to satisfy their fundamental need to feel safe depending on others. We first review the direct relational cues (i.e., a partner's affectionate touch, responsive versus unresponsive behavior, and relative power) and indirect cues (i.e., bodily sensations, collective value in the eyes of others, and living conditions) that signal the current safety of social connection and motivate people to connect to others or protect themselves against them. We then review how people's chronic capacity to trust in others controls their sensitivity and reactivity to the safety cues. The article concludes with future research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra L Murray
- Department of Psychology, The State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA; ,
| | - Gabriela S Pascuzzi
- Department of Psychology, The State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA; ,
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Graff TC, Birmingham WC, Wadsworth LL, Hung M. Doing it all: Effects of Family Responsibilities and Marital Relationship Quality on Mothers' Ambulatory Blood Pressure. Ann Behav Med 2024; 58:67-78. [PMID: 37824850 PMCID: PMC10729791 DOI: 10.1093/abm/kaad058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The shared provider responsibility between married couples does not translate to equally shared division of childcare (CC) and household labor. While some marriages contain highly positive aspects, marriages may also simultaneously contain both positive and negative aspects. The negativity in these relationships can negate the positivity and could potentially lead to the detriment of mothers' health. PURPOSE We examined mothers' ambulatory blood pressure (ABP) associated with their marital relationship quality and perceived equity with her spouse on CC and household tasks. METHODS We investigate these associations using a mixed multilevel model analysis on a sample of 224 mothers in heterosexual marriages, all of whom had children under the age of 18 years currently living in the home. RESULTS Mothers' perception of equity in the division of CC responsibilities contributed to lower ABP. Additionally, mothers in supportive marital relationships (low negativity and high positivity) had lower ABP than those in ambivalent relationships (both high negativity and positivity). There was a crossover interaction such that the effect of relationship quality on ABP was moderated by the perception of equity in the division of CC. For mothers who report doing all the CC, they had lower ABP if they had a supportive marital relationship compared with mothers in ambivalent relationships. Whereas mothers who report more equity in CC and have a supportive relationship have higher ABP compared with mothers in ambivalent relationships. CONCLUSIONS This study has implications related to dynamics within marital relationships. These results demonstrate important relational influences on mothers' ABP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler C Graff
- Department of Psychology, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA
| | | | - Lori L Wadsworth
- Romney Institute of Public Service and Ethics, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA
| | - Man Hung
- Division of Public Health, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- College of Dental Medicine, Roseman University of Health Sciences, South Jordan, UT, USA
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Wilson SJ, Novak JR, Yorgason JB, Martire LM, Lyons KS. New Opportunities for Advancing Dyadic Health Science in Gerontology. THE GERONTOLOGIST 2024; 64:gnac187. [PMID: 36534908 PMCID: PMC10733121 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnac187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
As dyadic health science enters a golden age, important conceptual, theoretical, and technical challenges remain. This forum review brings together perspectives on the burgeoning dyadic literature from several subdisciplines within aging research. We first define key concepts and terms so that interested researchers can navigate the complex and various ways in which dyadic health research is conducted. We discuss exciting scientific advances and close by identifying crucial challenges and considerations that coincide with important future directions for the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie J Wilson
- Department of Psychology, Southern Methodist University, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Joshua R Novak
- Department of Human Development and Family Science, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
| | | | - Lynn M Martire
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Karen S Lyons
- Connell School of Nursing, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, USA
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Kim J, Kwon KY. Marital dissatisfaction and functional performance in older adults: Heterogeneity in the association by educational level. Soc Sci Med 2024; 340:116460. [PMID: 38056306 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2023.116460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE The marital relationship is an important source of the well-being of older adults. Despite existing literature on marital dissatisfaction and adverse health outcomes, little is known about whether marital dissatisfaction is associated with functional performance in older adults. OBJECTIVE Drawing on stress process model and health behavior model, this study examined the longitudinal association between marital dissatisfaction and older adults' functional performance. Furthermore, we sought to investigate whether this association varies based on educational level. METHODS Using seven waves (12 years) of the Korean Longitudinal Study of Ageing (KLoSA) from 2006 to 2019, this study estimated fixed effects models to account for unobserved individual-level confounders. Objectively measured hand grip strength and subjective assessments of vision, hearing, masticatory functions, as well as limitations in activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) were used to evaluate functional performance. An interaction model was used to determine whether educational level moderates the association. RESULTS Fixed effects estimates revealed that marital dissatisfaction is negatively associated with grip strength, as well as masticatory, vision, and hearing functions, while also showing a positive association with limitations in ADLs and IADLs. The results of this study provided evidence on heterogeneity in the association by educational level. The associations between marital dissatisfaction and functional performance, including grip strength, mastication, and hearing, were driven primarily by those with older adults with a higher level of education. CONCLUSION The findings of this study suggest that marital dissatisfaction is a robust predictor of functional performance in older adults. Efforts to address marital dissatisfaction has the potential to improve functional performance, particularly for older adults with higher levels of education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinho Kim
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Interdisciplinary Program in Precision Public Health, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Center for Demography of Health and Aging, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA.
| | - Keun Young Kwon
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Morris KL, McDowell CN, Tawfiq D, Outler C, Kimmes JG. Relationship mindfulness, negative relationship quality, and physical health. JOURNAL OF MARITAL AND FAMILY THERAPY 2024; 50:136-149. [PMID: 37855613 DOI: 10.1111/jmft.12677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
Romantic relationships have the potential to be a great source of support or a significant stressor depending on the quality of the relationship. Given the importance of these relationships, it is important to explore possible predictors of relationship quality, primarily if such predictors can be targeted in a clinical setting. Relationship mindfulness, or the propensity to be mindful in the setting of a romantic relationship, is one such option. The current study explored the associations between relationship mindfulness, negative relationship quality, and physical health. An online assessment was completed by 116 middle-aged different-sex couples that measured the variables of interest. In addition, an Actor-Partner Interdependence Mediation Model was utilized to determine significant associations between relationship mindfulness, negative relationship quality, and physical health for both actors and partners. The clinical implications are that relationship mindfulness may help to decrease negative relationship quality and subsequently benefit individual physical health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine L Morris
- Department of Human Development and Family Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - Chrystal N McDowell
- Department of Human Development and Family Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - Dania Tawfiq
- Department of Human Development and Family Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - Carson Outler
- Department of Human Development and Family Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - Jonathan G Kimmes
- Department of Human Development and Family Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
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