Exploring the role of psychological flexibility in relationship functioning among couples coping with prostate cancer: a cross-sectional study.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

Prostate cancer (PCa) is an external stressor that can affect both patients and partners, but dyadic research in this area is limited. This study, guided by the vulnerability-stress-adaptation model, examines how PCa distress affects relationship satisfaction through psychological flexibility and self-esteem.

Methods

The study used a cross-sectional design with a total sample size of 314 dyads. The actor-partner interdependence model was applied to examine both actor and partner effects. Covariates were also examined.

Results

PCa distress negatively predicted psychological flexibility in both patients ( β = - .93, p < .001) and partners ( β = - 0.70, p < .001). Psychological flexibility, in turn, positively predicted self-esteem in both patients ( β = 0.19,

SUBMITTER: Ma H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11821681 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature