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Experiential avoidance, self-compassion, self-judgment and coping styles in infertility

2016; Elsevier BV; Volume: 10; Linguagem: Inglês

10.1016/j.srhc.2016.04.001

1877-5764

Marina Cunha, Ana Galhardo, José Pinto‐Gouveia,

Attachment and Relationship Dynamics

This study sought out to explore the existence of differences regarding emotion regulation processes (psychological inflexibility/experiential avoidance, self-judgment and self-compassion) and coping styles (emotional/detached, avoidant and rational) in three different groups of couples: 120 fertile couples (FG), 147 couples with an infertility diagnosis who were pursuing medical treatment for their fertility problem(s) (IG), and 59 couples with infertility applying for adoption (AG). Cross-sectional survey, using the couple as unit of analysis. Participants filled in paper-pencil questionnaires assessing coping styles, psychological inflexibility/experiential avoidance, self-judgment and self-compassion. IG couples, and particularly women, tend to use more experiential avoidance and self-judgment mechanisms and less emotional/detached coping style. When compared to FG couples, IG and AG couples tend to apply more avoidant coping strategies. AG couples showed higher self-compassion. Findings suggest that emotion regulation processes may be an important target in psychological interventions for patients dealing with infertility and with the demands of medical treatment.