Keywords

couple relationship quality, multiple sclerosis, depression

Abstract

Using Engel's biopsychosocial model and family systems theory, this study explored the associations between multiple sclerosis (MS) patient and partner reports of physical functioning, depression, and could relationship quality. Fifty-four couples recruited from the MS society completed self-reported questionnaires about couple relationship quality, demographic data, and physical functioning. In regression analyses, couple relationship quality positively related to MS patient physical functioning and depression negatively related to MS patient physical functioning. Both MS patient and partner reports of couple relationship quality negatively related to depression scores in partners. While MS patient reports of couple relationship quality negatively related to MS patient depressions scores, partner reports of couple relationship quality were not significantly related. Depression and couple relationship quality were associated with MS patient physical functioning. Couples with higher relationship quality may be better able to cope with the stresses of MS. Thus, clinicians and health care providers need to include partners in MS patient treatment. Further research is needed to better explain causality between MS patient physical functioning, depression, and couple relationship quality.

Original Publication Citation

McPheters, J.K., & Sandberg, J.G. (2010). The relationship among couple relationship quality, physical functioning, and depression in multiple sclerosis patients and partners. Families, Systems, and Health, 28(1), 48-68.

Document Type

Peer-Reviewed Article

Publication Date

2010

Permanent URL

http://hdl.lib.byu.edu/1877/6878

Publisher

Families, Systems, & Health

Language

English

College

Family, Home, and Social Sciences

Department

Family Life

University Standing at Time of Publication

Full Professor

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