IMPACT OF GRATITUDE DYADIC COPING, STRESS MANAGEMENT AND QUALITY OF LIFE AMONG MARRIED COUPLES

Abstract

Background: Gratitude-based dyadic coping (DC-G) is an emerging concept in relationship psychology, focusing on how couples express and receive gratitude while navigating stress. In marital relationships, this reciprocal gratitude can promote emotional resilience, relational satisfaction, and overall well-being. Within collectivist cultures such as Pakistan, where family obligations and social expectations often heighten stress, understanding the role of DC-G in enhancing stress management and quality of life is especially crucial.

Objective: To examine the impact of gratitude-based dyadic coping on stress management and quality of life among married couples in Pakistan, and to explore gender-based differences in these associations.

Methods: A correlational survey research design was employed. The study included 115 married couples (n = 230; 115 husbands and 115 wives) aged 20–50 years, with a minimum marriage duration of five years. Data were collected using convenience sampling from Bhakkar city. Instruments included the Dyadic Coping Based Gratitude Questionnaire (α = .83–.84), Stress Management Skills Scale (α = .73–.74), and WHOQOL-BREF (α = .87). Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation, linear regression, and paired sample t-tests.

Results: Partner-expressed DC-G significantly predicted stress management (β = .43, p < .01) and quality of life (β = .32, p < .01) among husbands. For wives, self-expressed DC-G had a stronger effect on quality of life (β = .26, p < .01). Correlation analysis showed strong associations between DC-G and quality of life (r = .384, p < .01), while stress management correlated positively only with quality of life (r = .623, p < .01). Partial gender differences were found in self-expressed gratitude, but not in stress management or quality of life.

Conclusion: Gratitude-based dyadic coping contributes positively to emotional well-being, particularly in managing stress and improving life satisfaction. Its integration into marital counseling can serve as a culturally sensitive and effective intervention strategy.