ABSTRACT
A number of approaches embryonically included cultural factors in dyadic coping models but focused on generalities vs. specifics. American couples more frequently reported changes in their relationship as the most stressful aspects of living with the illness. Similar appraisal patterns have emerged in studies of coping in collectivistic and individualistic cultures. The types of dyadic coping behaviors used were quite similar across the three cultural groups, but the explanations for why they used these strategies and the meanings attached to their coping behaviors differed among cultures. Drawing strength from interpersonal relationships and relying on them for practical support are essential components of women's coping processes. Among Romanian couples, a strong religious faith can play a significant role in a couple's marital satisfaction and dyadic coping. The author shows how variations of dyadic coping can emerge in couples across fourteen countries by using the Systemic Transactional Model (STM) as the overarching framework.
