STRESS AS A FACTOR IN MARITAL RELATIONSHIPS

SANDRA FARLOW BADER DISKIN, Purdue University

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate differences in perceptions and interactions of stressed couples in contrast to non-stressed couples. Self-reports and behavioral observations were taken at an initial test period and again 4 to 6 weeks later. By measuring differences on both perceptional and interactional levels, it was intended to learn how stress was incorporated into the marital dyad. Moreover, by taking data at two intervals, the stability of any disruption(s) could be noted. The subject population was married couples; in their thirties, professionally oriented, and in a relationship usually of many years duration. The couples were equally divided into a stressed group and a non-stressed group. The basis for group assignment was a biochemical assay that determined each person's stress level. A couple was designated as stressed if one spouse was determined to be stressed; non-stressed if both spouses were within normal limits of hormone excretion. As a secondary stress indicator participants were given the Holmes and Rahe Social Readjustment Rating Scale. By coupling high external stress (as indicated by the SRRS) with abnormal biochemical levels the research was able to focus on stress initiated from outside of the relationship. The quality of the marital relationship was measured by the Barrett-Lennard Relationship Inventory. The data from each group were compared using the t-test. The stressed group had statistically significantly lower scores on the Total score than the non-stressed group. Similarly, on each subscale of Regard, Empathy and Congruence the stressed group indicated a relationship that was less satisfying than those of the non-stressed group. As the criterion for assignment into the stressed group was one spouse found to be stressed, there were several individuals who were not stressed. Comparison of their scores against the scores of the stressed individuals within the group yielded no statistically significant differences on a t-test. Similarly a breakdown by matched (stressed-stressed) couples compared to non-matched (stressed, non-stressed) couples resulted in no statistically significant differences on a t-test between groups. Therefore it was concluded that spouses are affected by stress as part of an integrated pair. A projective test, the Family TAT, was offered as a stimulus to observe couple interaction and videotaped for later recall. In addition, responses to the three ordered sets of cards produced thematic material that was analyzed for content. Both sets of data were coded by three judges with a demonstrated high standard of accuracy. Affective states of hostility and affection as well as the total number of projected feeling states were compared for the two groups. Using the Chi-square statistic the stressed couples were found to project statistically significant more total feeling and hostility into the card sets than the non-stressed couples. Affection scores between the two groups, however, were not statistically significantly different. Behavioral scales consistently validated non-productive work patterns in the stressed group. Stressed couples were distracted and unable to problem solve effectively when compared to the non-stressed pairs. On longitudinal comparison, the non-stressed couples improved the quality of their interactions from initial to repeat testing. The behavior of the stressed couples was of poorer quality at initial testing, and they performed more poorly at the repeat testing. Stress seemed to inhibit learning in that they did not appear to have "learned" from their previous experience and had to repeat past work.

Degree

Ph.D.

Subject Area

Physiological psychology

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