Certain shifts in the marital relationship must be made in the face of chronic illness in order for it to survive.  Some coping strategies are unhealthy, and partners must adapt their coping strategies to be more congruent with each other in order to preserve the marriage.  Otherwise, the coping strategies of one partner might inhibit those of the other partner.

Coping with chronic illness as a couple

Suppose Bradford receives a midterm notice that he is failing his statistics class. If Bradford adopts a problem-focused coping approach, he would actively address the source of his stress by contacting his professor to discuss how to raise his grade, setting aside two hours daily to study, and seeking tutoring assistance.

Example of Problem-Focused Coping for Academic Stress

Problem-focused coping involves cognitive strategies similar to everyday problem-solving. This systematic process typically consists of:
1. Identifying the specific problem causing stress.
2. Considering possible solutions or courses of action.
3. Weighing the costs and benefits of each potential solution.
4. Selecting and implementing an alternative to address the stressor.

Steps in Problem-Focused Coping

A style of coping that involves performing an action to mitigate the problem at hand.

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The impacts of chronic illness on each partner can interact to place strain on the relationship.  For example, if one spouse has COPD, the resulting lack of oxygenation to the brain can result in changes in perception of one's spouse, which can lead to isolation and/or conflict.  This can increase the risk for health problems in the well spouse.

Impacts of chronic illness on marriage

Cannon, C. A., & Cavanaugh, J. C. (1998). Chronic illness in the context of marriage: A systems perspective of stress and coping in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Families, Systems, & Health, 16(4), 401-418. http://dx.doi.org/10.1037/h0089865

Chronic illness in the context of marriage: A systems perspective of stress and coping in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Spielman, R. M., Jenkins, W. J., & Lovett, M. D. (2020, April 22). Psychology (2nd ed.). OpenStax. https://openstax.org/books/psychology-2e/pages/1-introduction

OpenStax Psychology (2nd ed.) Textbook

Problem-focused coping

A style of coping that involves the management of emotional distress. These coping styles tend to be unhealthy, but there are some examples, like turning to religion, that are healthy in situations in which one has no control.

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