Dyadic congruence, dyadic coping, and psychopathology: Implications in dyads for patients with acute coronary syndrome

Introduction: Along with a worldwide growth of individuals diagnosed with coronary heart disease (CHD), the number of adults affected with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) has substantially increased over a period of time. Such negative effects are not only limited to the patient but also extend to the caregiver. With this growing importance of caregiving among dyads, there comes a commensurate need to carefully exploring the impact of the relationship on the mental and possible overall health of both. The aim of this study is to examine the impact of dyadic coping as a mediator in the relationship between dyadic congruence and psychopathology of patient-caregiver dyads with acute coronary syndrome. Materials and Method: The present study was of a cross-sectional design. A total of 216 dyads (108 patients and 108 caregivers) were selected for this study. All the participants were chosen from Base Hospital and SGT Hospital, India. Data was collected through survey which included measures to test dyadic congruence, dyadic coping, depression, anxiety and somatic symptoms. Results: Correlation and mediation analysis was carried out for statistical analysis. Dyadic coping significantly mediated the relationship between dyadic congruence and psychopathology among patients with acute coronary syndrome and their caregivers. Conclusion: The findings of the present study throw a light on the impact of dyadic congruence and dyadic coping on the mental health of both patients with acute coronary syndrome and their caregivers.