Marital Quality-A Neglected Player in the Prevention of Cardiovascular Diseases: A Systematic Review of Longitudinal Studies.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Marital quality (MQ) is a psychosocial factor that has been neglected in cardiovascular prevention guidelines, although its association with cardiovascular diseases has been identified in several studies. Therefore, we aim to investigate how MQ either in positive or negative dimensions affect different cardiovascular risk factors and diseases. RECENT FINDINGS: We systematically searched different databases in September 2023 for longitudinal studies conducted to assess the contribution of MQ to well-established cardiovascular risk factors and diseases. Two independent researchers screened studies and carried out data extraction and quality assessment of included ones. From 12,175 potential studies screened, 40 were included. The presence of significant heterogeneity in methodology, follow-up, and subsequent effect estimates made it unfeasible to do a meta-analysis. Despite the variation, most studies found a significant association of negative MQ measures with physical inactivity (2/2), high levels of smoking (4/5) and alcohol (3/3) use, increased metabolic syndrome risk (3/3), elevated type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) risk and poor T2DM management (3/6), elevated cardiovascular disease risk and progression (9/11), increased body weight and obesity risk (2/3), elevated blood pressure and hypertension risk (7/8). Positive MQ measures were mainly associated with improvement in blood pressure control (2/2), reduced T2DM risk and its good management (1/1), reduced body weight and obesity risk (2/2), and increased survival in cardiovascular diseases (4/4). Based on current evidence, MQ seems to play a crucial role in developing established cardiovascular risk factors and diseases and is worth considering in preventive strategies.

Associations between marital quality and the prognosis of breast cancer in young Chinese women: 10.3-year median follow-up.

BACKGROUND: Some evidence has revealed that marital status is an important predictor of breast cancer (BC) prognosis. However, what role marital quality plays in the effect of marital status on BC prognosis remains unclear. METHODS: We conducted a prospective cohort study of women aged 20-50 years with stage I-III BC treated in accordance with a standard treatment protocol. The following three categories of marital quality were assessed: marital satisfaction, sexual relationship, and couple communication. The log-rank test was used to compare survival. Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for recurrence and metastasis, BC-specific mortality, and overall mortality, adjusting for clinical variables. RESULTS: A total of 1,043 married women were initially recruited in the study. Forty-five (4.3%) patients refused to participate in this study and 141 (13.5%) were excluded from the analysis. Among 857 participants, there were 59 deaths, including 57 from BC. Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that patients with poor marital satisfaction had significantly higher risks of recurrence and metastasis (HR 3.942, 95% CI: 1.903-8.167), BC-specific mortality (HR 3.931, 95% CI: 1.896-8.150), and overall mortality (HR 3.916, 95% CI: 1.936-7.924). Those with poor sexual relationship had significantly higher risks of recurrence and metastasis (HR 5.763, 95% CI: 3.012-11.027), BC-specific mortality (HR 5.724, 95% CI: 2.992-10.949), and overall mortality (HR 5.653, 95% CI: 2.993-10.680). CONCLUSIONS: Our results identified a subset of BC patients who have a poor prognosis, namely, those with poor marital quality. Early screening for marital quality and applying necessary social support interventions are helpful in improving the prognosis of patients with poor marital quality.

Construct Validity of the Brazilian Version of the Dyadic Adjustment Scale / Validação de Construto da Versão Brasileira da Dyadic Adjustment Scale

Abstract This study sought evidence of construct validity for the Brazilian versions of the Dyadic Adjustment Scale and Revised Dyadic Adjustment Scale. A total of 448 individuals participated in the research, 253 women and 195 men from several regions of Brazil who had been cohabiting with their marital partners for an average of 14.7 years. Several proposed models for the measure were tested in Structural Equation Modeling. In the Confirmatory Factor Analysis, the four-factor and hierarchical models of the Revised Dyadic Adjustment Scale showed good overall adjustments. Evidence of factor, convergent, and discriminant validity were also found. Composite reliability revealed adequate levels of internal consistency. The Multigroup Confirmatory Factor Analysis demonstrated a strong measurement invariance model for men and women.

Resumo Este estudo verificou evidências de validade de construto para as versões brasileiras da Dyadic Adjustment Scale e da Revised Dyadic Adjustment Scale. Participaram da pesquisa 448 indivíduos, 253 mulheres e 195 homens de diversas regiões nacionais que coabitavam com seus parceiros conjugais há 14,7 anos, em média. Na Análise Fatorial Confirmatória, foram testados seis modelos anteriormente propostos para a medida. Entre eles, quatro fatores correlacionados e hierárquico multidimensional da Revised Dyadic Adjustment Scale apresentaram os melhores ajustes gerais. Foram encontradas evidências de validades fatorial, convergente e discriminante e níveis adequados de consistência interna por meio da confiabilidade composta. Também foi demonstrada a invariância de medida forte do modelo da RDAS entre homens e mulheres.

Psychometric properties of dyadic data from the marital quality scale of Indonesian Javanese couples

Abstract Background Researchers have demonstrated that various measurement concepts and dimensions depend on context and timing. Objectives The current study aimed to determine the psychometric properties of the Javanese couples' marital quality scale based on validity and reliability Methods In total 840 participants or 420 marital dyad from Java, Indonesia, were involved in this study. The psychometrics properties scale was analyzed using exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, convergent and discriminant analysis, and composite reliability. Results The exploratory factor analysis found relationship quality to consist of support, physical proximity, warmth, communication, acceptance and respect, role sharing, and responsibility factors. Well-being quality consists of happiness, harmony, and problem-solving. The fit of the measurement model was obtained using confirmatory factor analysis. The fit model was also found in the husband's and wife's groups, with no differences between them. The high correlations between wife-husband factors also proved the validity based on convergent and discriminant evidence. The reliability coefficient was high for each dimension and construct. Discussion This analysis shows that the marital quality scale developed has information on psychometric properties that can be useful for researchers and the practicians using the marital quality instrument of Javanese couples in particular.

Intimate Relationships and Coronary Heart Disease: Implications for Risk, Prevention, and Patient Management.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Research and clinical services addressing psychosocial aspects of coronary heart disease (CHD) typically emphasize individuals, focusing less on the context of intimate relationships such as marriage and similar partnerships. This review describes current evidence regarding the role of intimate relationships in the development, course, and management of CHD. RECENT FINDINGS: Having an intimate partner is associated with reduced risk of incident CHD and a better prognosis among patients, but strain (e.g., conflict) and disruption (i.e., separation, divorce) in these relationships are associated with increased risk and poor outcomes. These associations likely reflect mechanisms involving health behavior and the physiological effects of emotion and stress. Importantly, many other well-established psychosocial risk and protective factors (e.g., low SES, job stress, depression, and optimism) are strongly related to the quality of intimate relationships, and these associations likely contribute to the effects of those other psychosocial factors. For better or worse, intimate partners can also affect the outcome of efforts to alter health behaviors (physical activity, diet, smoking, and medication adherence) central in the prevention and management CHD. Intimate partners also influence-and are influenced by-stressful aspects of acute coronary crises and longer-term patient adjustment and management. Evidence on each of these roles of intimate relationships in CHD is considerable, but direct demonstrations of the value of couple assessments and interventions are limited, although preliminary research is promising. Research needed to close this gap must also address issues of diversity, disparities, and inequity that have strong parallels in CHD and intimate relationships.

The effects of a nurse-led couples intervention on marital quality of couples with gynecological cancer: A clinical randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of a nurse-led couples intervention on the marital quality of couples coping with gynecological cancer. METHODS: Couples coping with gynecological cancer were randomly allocated to the intervention (n = 51) and the control (n = 53) group. The intervention group received the nurse-led couples intervention developed based on the Preliminary Live with Love Conceptual Framework plus routine nursing care. The control group received only routine nursing care. Marital quality, including marital satisfaction, marital communication, and sexual life, were measured using Olson Marital Quality Questionnaire at 3 timepoints (baseline, 2- and 3-months following baseline). Generalized estimating equation was used to examine the effectiveness of the intervention in improving marital quality. RESULTS: Patients and husbands in the intervention group had significantly improved marital satisfaction scores (Waldχ2 = 11.109, P = 0.001; Waldχ2 = 4.849, P = 0.028); the interaction between intervention and time had a significant effect on the marital communication of both patients and their husbands (Waldχ2 = 6.214, P = 0.045; Waldχ2 = 15.460, P < 0.001). Patient-reported and husband-reported sexual life was not significantly influenced by the intervention (Waldχ2 = 0.167, P = 0.683; Waldχ2 = 3.215, P = 0.073). CONCLUSIONS: The nurse-led couples intervention based on the Preliminary Live with Love Conceptual Framework improved marital satisfaction and marital communication, but not sexual life, of couples coping with gynecological cancer. The provision of professional sexual health psychology training for nurses may be crucial if nurse-led models are to truly support the sexual health of couples coping with gynecological cancer. REGISTRATION: Registered with www.chictr.org.cn (ChiCTR2000034232).

Construção e evidências de validade da Escala de Qualidade Conjugal / Construction and validity evidence for the Marital Quality Scale / Construcción y evidencias de validez de la Escala de Calidad Marital

Este estudo buscou construir e verificar evidências de validade de uma escala de avaliação da qualidade conjugal (EQC) para a população brasileira. Os itens foram avaliados por juízes especialistas e leigos. A versão preliminar da EQC consistiu em 28 itens avaliando cinco dimensões: satisfação, compromisso, intimidade, sexualidade e afetividade. A escala foi aplicada em 655 pessoas que estavam em um relacionamento amoroso e em coabitação com o(a) companheiro(a) há no mínimo seis meses. Os participantes também responderam a instrumentos sobre dados sociodemográficos, ajustamento (RDAS-P), satisfação (RelAS), qualidade (Aquarela-R) e conflito conjugal (CRBQ). Foi realizada uma análise fatorial confirmatória, análises de consistência interna e de correlação. O modelo da EQC obteve bom ajuste aos dados, consistência interna adequada e correlações nas direções esperadas com as demais escalas. Conclui-se que o instrumento apresentou evidências de validade satisfatórias, baseadas no conteúdo, estrutura interna e relações com variáveis relacionadas, para aplicação no contexto brasileiro (AU).

This study aimed to build and verify validity evidence of a marital quality assessment scale (EQC) for the Brazilian population. The items were first evaluated by an expert panel and members of the target population. The preliminary version of the EQC consisted of 28 items evaluating five dimensions: satisfaction, commitment, intimacy, sexuality, and affection. Participants were 655 people who had been in a romantic relationship and in co-habitation with the partner for at least six months. The questionnaire also included instruments on sociodemographic data, and marital adjustment (RDAS-P), satisfaction (RelAS), quality (Aquarela-R), and conflict (CRBQ). Confirmatory factor analysis, internal consistency, and correlation analyses were performed. The EQC model was well fitted to the data, had good internal consistency, and correlated with the other scales in the expected directions. We concluded that the instrument showed adequate validity evidence for administration in the Brazilian context (AU).

El objetivo del estudio fue construir y verificar evidencias de validez de una escala de evaluación de la calidad marital (EQC) para la población brasileña. Los ítems fueron analizados por expertos y legos. La versión preliminar del EQC consistió en 28 ítems que evaluaron cinco dimensiones: satisfacción, compromiso, intimidad, sexualidad y afectividad. La escala se aplicó a 655 personas que vivían con su pareja durante al menos seis meses. Los participantes también respondieron a instrumentos sobre datos sociodemográficos, ajuste (RDAS-P), satisfacción (RelAS), calidad (Aquarela-R) y conflicto conyugal (CRBQ). Se realizó un análisis factorial confirmatorio, análisis de consistencia interna y correlación. El modelo de la EQC obtuvo un buen ajuste a los datos, una consistencia interna adecuada y correlaciones con las otras escalas en las direcciones esperadas. Se concluye que el instrumento presentó evidencias de validez satisfactorias, basadas en su contenido, estructura interna y relaciones con variables relacionadas, para su aplicación en el contexto brasileño (AU).

Self-efficacy, psychological distress, and marital quality in young and middle-aged couples facing lymphoma: The mediating effect of dyadic coping.

OBJECTIVE: This study explored the mediating role of dyadic coping between self-efficacy, psychological distress and marital quality among young and middle-aged couples facing lymphoma. METHODS: A total of 243 couples in which the patients were lymphoma were recruited to complete Dyadic Coping Inventory, Locke-Wallace Marital Adjustment Scale for both. And Strategies Used by People to Promote Health, Fear of Progression Questionnaire-Short Form for patients; General Self-Efficacy Scale and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale for spouses. We used the statistical programs SPSS 20.0 and SPSS Amos 20.0 for data analysis. RESULTS: There were significant correlations between patient-spouse's dyadic coping and marriage quality scores. The patients' dyadic coping scores were significantly associated with their self-efficacy, fear of cancer recurrence scores, marriage quality, their spouse's self-efficacy, and marriage quality. The spouses' dyadic coping scores were significantly associated with their self-efficacy, anxiety, and marriage quality. The actor-partner interdependence mediation model analysis mediator effect of dyadic coping in the relationship between self-efficacy, psychological distress, and marriage quality had a good fit, with χ2 /df = 17.106, p = 0.194; root mean square error of approximation = 0.036; GFI = 0.992; CN = 243. CONCLUSIONS: For both patient and spouses, dyadic coping mediated impact of self-efficacy on marriage quality of themselves and their spouses, and individuals' dyadic coping mediated impact their psychological distress on marriage quality of themselves and spouses. The study highlighted the need for couple-based interventions and including strategies combined with individual and dyadic therapy for both partners.

The Effect of Different Surgical Methods on Female and Male Sexual Activity and Marital Quality in Patients With Early-Stage Cervical Cancer.

INTRODUCTION: Sexual activity is important for marital quality, especially in cervical cancer survivors. Vagina extension following laparoscopic radical hysterectomy with bilateral ovarian preservation (VEOP), vagina extension following laparoscopic radical hysterectomy with bilateral oophorectomy (VEBO), radical hysterectomy with bilateral ovarian preservation (RHOP), and radical hysterectomy with bilateral oophorectomy (RHBO) are the common surgeries for young cervical cancer patients. AIM: To investigate the effect of the 4 surgical methods on female/male sexual activity and marital quality in early-stage cervical cancer survivors. METHODS: Multiple linear regression analysis was conducted in 205 patients with stage Ia1-IIa2 cervical cancer to evaluate the factors that affected male/female sexual function and marital quality. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), modified Kupperman Index (KI), modified Sexual Life Quality Questionnaire (mSLQQ-QoL), and ENRICH marital inventory were used to reflect changes in female/male sexual function and marital quality in the 4 groups. RESULTS: Female/male sexual function and marital quality were both highest in the VEOP group and lowest in the RHBO group. The regression results showed that ovarian preservation and vaginal extension were associated with female/male sexual function and marital quality. Furthermore, when vaginal extension and ovarian preservation were replaced by vaginal length, sexual psychological change, and hormone level index (KI), respectively; male sexual function was associated with vaginal length and sexual psychological change, whereas female sexual function and marital quality were only associated with hormone level and sexual psychological change. Clinical statistics found that four-fifths of the recurrent patients had vaginal extension (P = .042), and 3-quarters of these patients had large tumors. CONCLUSION: Ovarian preservation and vaginal extension are both important for male/female sexual activity and marital quality. Vaginal extension may play a positive role in female sexual life via psychology and in male sexual life via vaginal length. Vaginal extension may not be suitable for patients with large masses. Zhang Y, Sun S, Ding J, et al. The Effect of Different Surgical Methods on Female and Male Sexual Activity and Marital Quality in Patients With Early-Stage Cervical Cancer. Sex Med 2020;8:307-314.

Couple relationship education program "Living as Partners": evaluation of effects on marital quality and conflict

Abstract Relationship education programs are strategies that can favor better marital quality and conflict management between spouses. The relationship education program "Living as Partners: Turning Challenges into Opportunities" seeks to promote the couples' learning of conflict resolution strategies and better quality levels in the relationship. This study evaluates the capacity of this program to produce results regarding marital quality and three dimensions of the couple's conflict: frequency, intensity, and resolution strategies. Data from 41 couples were analyzed before and after the program, and a follow-up after 5 months (n = 33 couples) were conducted as well (single group, pre-test, post-test, and follow-up quasi-experimental design). Results show that the program produced immediate effects in all the outcome variables, which remained significant after 5 months, except for marital quality and for the strategy of compliance. These outcomes showed effect sizes ranging from low to high levels. The study presents evidence about the ability of the "Living as Partners" program to produce improvements in couple's conflict indicators, addressing an unexplored field of research and intervention focused on Brazilian cultural specificities.

Cuando las parejas envejecen: calidad de la relación marital / When marriages age: The quality of the relationships / Quando os casais envelhecem: qualidade do relacionamento conjugal

Ante el incremento del envejecimiento en Puerto Rico, se considera la necesidad de estudiar a este grupo para poder proveerle servicios adecuados según sus realidades. Se realizaron entrevistas profundas, a 10 personas con un promedio de 53.25 años de casados. Tematicas que se analizaron: el significado del matrimonio, la fortaleza de la relación, la comunicación marital, el conflicto marital, perdón, confianza y recomendaciones a futuros matrimonios. Los matrimonios reconocieron las complejidades de la relación desde una mirada positiva.

With the increment of older population in Puerto Rico, exist the need to study this group to provide adequate services. depth interviews were performed to 10 married people with an average 53.25 years of marriage. Thematic that were analyze: the meaning of marriage in their lives, the strength of their relationship, marital communication, marital conflict, forgiveness, trust and the recommendations to future marriages. Finally, even though the spouses recognize the complexities in their marital relationship they also demonstrated to have a positive view on it.

Dado o aumento do envelhecimento em Porto Rico, considerou-se a necessidade de estudar este grupo objetivando fornecer os serviços adequados, de acordo com estas realidades. Foram realizadas entrevistas em profundidade com 10 pessoas, com uma média de casamento de 53.25 anos. Analisaram-se os seguintes tópicos: o significado do casamento, a força do relacionamento, comunicação conjugal, conflito conjugal, perdão, confiança e recomendações para futuros casamentos. Os casamentos reconheceram as complexidades do relacionamento de uma perspectiva positiva.

Conflito trabalho-família: um estudo com brasileiros e norte-americanos / Work-family conflict: a study with brazilians and americans / Conflicto trabajo-familia: un estudio con brasileños y norteamericanos

Mudanças na economia mundial extrapolam organizações e apresentam efeitos não apenas no trabalho e no desenvolvimento da carreira, mas também na vida íntima e familiar dos profissionais. Este estudo buscou explorar em dois contextos, Brasil e Estados Unidos, diferenças e semelhanças na expressão do conflito trabalho-família, bem como aspectos relacionais e preditivos desse construto a partir das variáveis: sucesso de carreira, estresse no trabalho, satisfação com a vida, satisfação com a família e satisfação com o relacionamento. O estudo contou com 388 participantes (184 norte-americanos e 204 brasileiros), os quais responderam um questionário on-line com diferentes escalas psicológicas. Os resultados apontaram para ambos os contextos a preditividade do estresse no trabalho para conflito trabalho-família. Especificamente na amostra de norte-americanos, dimensões de sucesso de carreira foram preditores de família interferindo no trabalho. No grupo de brasileiros, aspectos de família interferindo no trabalho se relacionaram diretamente com satisfação no relacionamento amoroso.

Changes in the world economy extend beyond organizations and have effects not only on job and career development, but also on the personal and family life of professionals. The purpose of this study was to explore in two contexts, namely Brazil and the U.S., differences and similarities in the expression of work-family conflict, as well as the relational and predictive aspects of this construct based on the variables: career success, job stress, satisfaction with life, satisfaction with family, and personal relationship satisfaction. The study included 388 participants (184 Americans and 204 Brazilians) who answered an online questionnaire with different psychological scales. The results indicated that in both contexts, stress at work was a predecessor for work-family conflict. Specifically, in the U.S. sample, career success dimensions were predictors of family interfering with work. In the Brazilian group, aspects of family interfering in work were directly related with satisfaction in love relationships.

Cambios en la economía mundial extrapolan organizaciones y tienen efectos no solo sobre el trabajo y en el desarrollo profesional, sino también en la vida íntima y familiar de los profesionales. El objetivo de este estudio es explorar diferencias y similitudes en la expresión del conflicto trabajo-familia en Brasil y los EE.UU., así como los aspectos relacionales y predictivos de este constructo a partir de las siguientes variables: éxito profesional, estrés laboral, satisfacción con la vida, satisfacción con la familia y satisfacción con la relación. Los 388 participantes (184 norteamericanos y 204 brasileños) respondieron un cuestionario en internet con diferentes escalas psicológicas. Los resultados indicaron que, en ambos contextos, el estrés en el trabajo predecía conflicto trabajo-familia. Específicamente en la muestra estadounidense, las dimensiones de éxito de la carrera fueron predictores de la interferencia de familia en el trabajo. En Brasil, los aspectos de la interferencia de la familia en el trabajo estaban directamente relacionados con la satisfacción en las relaciones amorosas.

Manejo do dinheiro e qualidade conjugal / Manegement of money and marital quality

A qualidade conjugal é influenciada por diversos fatores, dentre eles, o dinheiro. Sendo assim, objetivou-se investigar a relação entre o manejo do dinheiro e a qualidade conjugal. Realizou-se uma pesquisa quantitativa com delineamento correlacional. Participaram 143 casais, casados oficialmente ou morando juntos, entre 19 e 81 anos. Aplicou-se um questionário socio demográfico, a DAS, o GRIMS e um questionário sobre manejo do dinheiro. Foram feitas análises descritivas e inferenciais. Os resultados revelaram que a maioria dos casais (58%) utiliza o sistema de gestão compartilhada do dinheiro, enquanto que 25% manejam separadamente e 17% delegam a um dos cônjuges o manejo. Os casais que compartilham o manejo financeiro obtiveram maiores níveis de qualidade conjugal e maior grau de felicidade com o relacionamento. Esses resultados corroboram com estudos anteriores, confirmando que o manejo do dinheiro está associado com a qualidade conjugal

Marital quality is influenced by several factors, among them, money. Therefore, this study ai- med to investigate the relationship between money management and marital quality. We per- formed a quantitative research with a correlational design. One hundred and fortythree couples, officially married or living together, between 19 and 81 years participated. We applied a sociodemographic questionnaire, the DAS, the GRIMS and a questionnaire about handling money. Descriptive and inferential analysis were made. The results revealed that the majority of couples (58%) uses the shared management system of money, 25% manage separately and 17% delegate the management to one of the spouses. The couples who uses the shared ma-nagement showed higher levels of marital quality and greater degree of happiness with the re-lationship. These results corroborate previous studies, confirming that the management of money is associated with marital quality

Ajustamento conjugal: a função das características individuais, do casal e do contexto / Marital Adjustment: the role of the characteristics of individuals, couple and context

A qualidade dos relacionamentos conjugais é circunscrita por diversos fatores. Este trabalho investigou como a idade, o nível de escolaridade, a orientação sexual, o status conjugal, o tempo de duração da relação, a presença ou não de filhos, a percepção da conjugalidade dos pais, o salário, a satisfação com o trabalho e a satisfação com a condição econômica se associavam ao ajustamento conjugal de 1350 participantes, de ambos os sexos, de diferentes regiões do país. Análises de variância (ANOVA) revelaram que a qualidade conjugal se associa a aspectos individuais, da dinâmica conjugal e vida laboral dos participantes. Indivíduos jovens, homossexuais, sem filhos, com percepção positiva da conjugalidade dos pais e que estavam satisfeitos com a condição financeira e de trabalho indicaram maiores níveis de ajustamento conjugal.

The quality of marital relationships is circumscribed by several factors. This study investigated how age, duration of relationship, salary, presence of children,perception of marital parents, sexual orientation, marital status, level of education, satisfaction with the economic status and satisfaction with the work were associated with the marital adjustment of 1350 participants, of both sexes, from different regions of the country. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed that marital quality is associated with individual aspects, marital dynamic and working life. Young people, homosexuals, individuals without children, subjects with a positive perception of marital parents and people who were satisfied with financial condition and working indicated largest marital adjustment levels.

A qualidade conjugal nos anos iniciais do casamento em casais de dupla carreira / The marital quality in the early years of marriage in dual-career couples / La calidad conyugal en los años iniciales del matrimonio en parejas de doble carrera

O casamento continua a ser desejado pelos jovens na atualidade. No entanto, surgem novas demandas em relação aos projetos individuais dos cônjuges e, além disso, a carreira profissional assume relevante importância na vida de ambos. Isso pode ter reflexos na qualidade do relacionamento, especialmente em seus anos iniciais. Nesse contexto, o objetivo deste estudo qualitativo foi analisar os níveis de qualidade conjugal nos anos iniciais do casamento em casais de dupla carreira. Tratou-se de um estudo de casos múltiplos com cinco casais heterossexuais, de primeira união, formal ou informal, entre dois e cinco anos, sem filhos, dupla carreira, idades entre 24 e 34 anos, residentes em Porto Alegre/RS e região metropolitana do estado do Rio Grande do Sul, que não estivessem em terapia de casal. Os instrumentos foram: questionário de dados sociodemográficos, entrevista semiestruturada com o casal e entrevista semiestruturada individual com cada cônjuge. Através da análise dos casos, foi possível identificar que os casais relatam altos níveis de qualidade conjugal. Quanto à comunicação, pode-se perceber que atingir níveis profundos é uma tarefa difícil, mas ao passo que os casais conseguem estabelecer tais níveis, essa dimensão parece contribuir como estratégia positiva para resolução de conflitos.

Marriage is still being desired by young people today, however there are new demands related to individual projects of the spouses, the importance of professional career, which may be reflected in the quality of the relationship, especially in its early years. In this context, the aim of this qualitative study was to analyze the levels of marital quality in the early years of marriage in dual-career couples. It was a multiple case study with five heterosexual couples in the first union, with up to five years of marital relationships, aged 24 and 34 years, dual career, childless and living in Porto Alegre / RS, and the metropolitan area. The instruments were: sociodemographic questionnaire, semi-structured interviews with the couple and individual semi-structured interviews with each spouse. Through the analysis of the cases could be identified that couples report high levels of marital quality. Related to the conflict and communication, it is noticed that reach deep levels of communication is a difficult task, however, when achieved, this seems to contribute as positive strategy for conflict resolution.

El matrimonio sigue siendo deseado por los jóvenes actualmente, entretanto, surgen nuevas demandas en relación a proyectos individuales de los cónyuges, la importancia de la carrera profesional, que pueden tener reflejos en la cualidad de la relación, especialmente en sus primeros años. En este contexto, el objetivo de este estudio cualitativo fue analizar los niveles de calidad conyugal en los años iniciales del matrimonio en parejas de doble carrera. Se trató de un estudio de múltiplos casos con cinco parejas heterosexuales, en primera unión, con hasta cinco años de relación conyugal, con edades entre 24 y 34 años, de doble carrera, sin hijos y residentes en Porto Alegre/RS y su región metropolitana. Los instrumentos utilizados fueran: cuestionario de datos socio-demográficos, entrevista semiestructurada con la pareja e individual con cada cónyuge. A través de análisis de los casos fue posible reconocer que las parejas relatan altos niveles de calidad conyugal. Cuanto la comunicación, se puede percibir que atingir niveles profundos de comunicación es una tarea difícil, entretanto cuando alcanzados, esta parece contribuir como estrategia positiva para resolución de conflictos.

Qualidade, ajustamento e satisfação conjugal: revisão sistemática da literatura / Marital quality, marital adjustment and marital satisfaction: systematic review of literature

No cenário atual coexistem diversas formas de ser casal. Frente à complexidade dos elementos que circunscrevem a conjugalidade, torna-se importante investigar o que está associado ao ‘ser feliz a dois’. A fim de mapear o que vem sendo estudado como relevante na compreensão desse fenômeno, realizamos uma revisão sistemática da literatura científica sobre satisfação, ajustamento e qualidade conjugal. As bases de dados PsycINFO e BVS-Psi filtraram 99 artigos, entre 2008 a 2013. A revisão permitiu mapear uma pluralidade de temáticas pertinentes ao tema. O panorama revelou, principalmente, estudos dedicados a compreender as disfuncionalidades e conflitos da conjugalidade. Observou-se uma lacuna em pesquisas dedicadas a estudar possibilidades de otimização e potencialização da qualidade e da saúde conjugal, assim como estudos sobre a prática clínica que subsidiem as possibilidades de intervenções na conjugalidade. Estudos com a população brasileira são escassos, comparados à produção internacional.(AU)

In the present scenario coexist several ways to be couple. Front complexity of elements that circumscribe conjugality, it’s important to investigate what is associated with ‘be happy in a couple’. In order to map what is being studied as relevant to an understanding of this phenomenon, it was realized a systematic review of the scientific literature about satisfaction, adjustment and marital quality. The PsycINFO and BVS-Psi database filtered 99 articles between 2008 and 2013. The revision allowed mapping a plurality of themes associated with the topic. The landscape is mainly characterized by studies devoted to understanding the dysfunctions and marital conflicts. A gapin studies about possibilities of optimization and enhancement of the quality and marital health was observe and also was revealed the lack of empirical research on clinical practice in order to subsidize the possibilities of marital interventions. Studies of the brazilian population are scarce, compared to international production.(AU)

Configurações e consequências de investimento afetivo em relacionamentos românticos / Configuration and affective consequences of investing in romantic relationships

O presente estudo busca compreender como diferentes configurações de investimento afetivo nos relacionamentos românticos associam-se com aspectos de qualidade conjugal eoutros construtos psicossocias, tais como crenças e habilidades sociais. Participaram, no total, 650 pessoas, sendo 310 (47,3%) do sexo masculino. A média de idade dos participantes foi de23,6 anos (DP = 6,9 anos). Entre os participantes do estudo, 283 (43,5%) declararam estarem envolvidos num relacionamento romântico no momento da pesquisa e 367 (56,5%) não estarmais envolvido com o parceiro(a) de relacionamento. Os resultados do estudo demonstram que níveis mais elevados de investimento afetivo associam-se a qualidade no relacionamento, a intimidade, a paixão, ao compromisso e a crenças de amor racionais e amistosas. Estes dados lançam luz sobre aspectos importantes do relacionamento romântico.

The present study aims to understand how different configurations of affectiveinvestment in romantic relationships are associated with aspects of marital quality and other psychosocial constructs, such as beliefs and social skills. Participated in the study 650 people, 310 (47.3%) were male participants. The average age of participants was 23.6 years (SD = 6.9 years). Among the participants, 283 (43.5%) reported being involved in a romantic relationship at the time of the survey and 367 (56.5%) reported being no longer involved in romantic relationship. The study results show that higher levels of affective investment are associated with maritalquality, intimacy, passion, commitment and beliefs of rational and friendly love. These data shed light on important aspects of romantic relationship.

Qualidade conjugal: estudo de caso de ribeirinhos na Amazônia / Marital quality: case study of river dwellers Amazon

O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a qualidade da relação conjugal de um casal ribeirinho da Ilha do Marajó-PA, Amazônia. O casal respondeu a uma entrevista sobre ciclo vital da família (namoro, nascimento dos filhos e vida atual) e participou de Situações Estruturadas de Investigação. Observações naturalísticas foram registradas em diários de campo. Uma análise do contexto, processos adaptativos e recursos pessoais permitiu averiguar a qualidade da relação associada às características do contexto sociocultural ribeirinho. Os resultados apontam para um padrão relacional marcado por mútuo ajustamento às práticas e aos papéis da cultura local embora se relate insatisfação na história conjugal. Os hábitos, sexualmente delimitados, encarregaram-se de suavizar a obrigação socialmente imposta em valores e expectativas da tradição.

The objective of this study was to analyze the quality of the marital relationship of a couple of river dwellers from Marajó Island - PA, Amazon. The couple was interviewed about family life cycles (dating, birth of sons and daughters, and current life) and participated in Structured Situations of Investigation. Naturalistic observations were recorded in field journals. An analysis of the context, adaptive processes, and personal resources allowed the investigation of the quality of the relationship associated with the characteristics of the socio-cultural context of the river dwellers. The results suggest a relationship standard marked by mutual adjustment to the practices and the roles of local culture, although the dissatisfaction of the marital history is reported. The customs, sexually delimitated, were able to soften the obligation socially imposed in values and traditional expectations.

Qualidade conjugal: mapeando conceitos / Marital quality: mapping out concepts

Apesar da ampla utilização do conceito de qualidade conjugal, identifica-se falta de clareza conceitual acerca das variáveis que o compõem. Esse artigo apresenta revisão da literatura na área com o objetivo de mapear o conceito de qualidade conjugal. Foram analisadas sete principais teorias sobre o tema: Troca Social, Comportamental, Apego, Teoria da Crise, Interacionismo Simbólico. Pelos postulados propostos nas diferentes teorias, podem-se identificar três grupos de variáveis fundamentais na definição da qualidade conjugal: recursos pessoais dos cônjuges, contexto de inserção do casal e processos adaptativos. Neste sentido, a qualidade conjugal é resultado do processo dinâmico e interativo do casal, razão deste caráter multidimensional.

Despite the wide use of marital quality concept, it is identified a lack of variables conceptual clarity. This article presents an area literature review with the objective of mapping out the conjugal concept. Seven theories about this subject were analysed: Social Exchange Theory, Behaviourist Theory, Attachment Theory, Crisis Theory, Simbolic Interactionism Theory, Family Systems Theory, Adaptation of Vulnerability to Stress Model. It is possible to identify three groups of variables in the definition of conjugal quality: spouses personal resources, context in which the couple is inserted, adapting processes. Hence, conjugal quality is the result of couple dynamic and interactive process, consequence of a multidimensional character.