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Understanding health behavior change among couples: An interdependence and communal coping approach

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  • Lewis, Megan A.
  • McBride, Colleen M.
  • Pollak, Kathryn I.
  • Puleo, Elaine
  • Butterfield, Rita M.
  • Emmons, Karen M.

Abstract

Marriage is a ubiquitous social status that consistently is linked to health. Despite this, there has been very little theory development or related research on the extent to which couple members are jointly motivated to and actively engage in health-enhancing behaviors. In this paper we propose an integrative model, based on interdependence theory and communal coping perspectives, that explicitly considers dyadic processes as determinants of couple behavior. Our integrated model applies these constructs to consider how couple dynamics might influence adoption of risk-reducing health habits. Accordingly, we suggest that the couple's interdependence can transform motivation from doing what is in the best interest of the self (person-centered), to doing even selfless actions that are best for the continuation of the relationship (relationship-centered). In turn, this transformation can lead to enhanced motivation for the couple to cope communally or act cooperatively in adopting health-enhancing behavior change. Implications for research related to couples and health behavior change are also highlighted.

Suggested Citation

  • Lewis, Megan A. & McBride, Colleen M. & Pollak, Kathryn I. & Puleo, Elaine & Butterfield, Rita M. & Emmons, Karen M., 2006. "Understanding health behavior change among couples: An interdependence and communal coping approach," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 62(6), pages 1369-1380, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:socmed:v:62:y:2006:i:6:p:1369-1380
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    13. Lhuissier, Anne, 2010. "Introduction - Maigrir : de la terminologie aux prariques," Review of Agricultural and Environmental Studies - Revue d'Etudes en Agriculture et Environnement (RAEStud), Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA), vol. 91(2).
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    20. Conroy, Amy A. & McKenna, Stacey A. & Comfort, Megan L. & Darbes, Lynae A. & Tan, Judy Y. & Mkandawire, James, 2018. "Marital infidelity, food insecurity, and couple instability: A web of challenges for dyadic coordination around antiretroviral therapy," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 214(C), pages 110-117.

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