Illness cognitions and psychological distress among young and middle-aged couples with colorectal cancer: A dyadic study

Abstract

This study explored the relationship between illness cognitions (helplessness, acceptance, and perceived benefits) and psychological distress in colorectal cancer couples. A cross-sectional study involving 403 colorectal cancer patients aged 26–59, diagnosed within 5 years, and their spouses in China was conducted from May to September 2023. Self-report questionnaires assessed illness cognitions, dyadic coping, and psychological distress. The results revealed that positive illness cognitions (acceptance and perceived benefits) and helplessness of patients and spouses both had direct and indirect effects on their own psychological distress through dyadic coping. The spouses’ coping mediated the relationship between patients’ positive illness cognitions and spouses’ psychological distress. Patients’ coping mediated the association between spouses’ positive illness cognitions and patients’ psychological distress. The same results were found in the relationships between helplessness and psychological distress. Interventions targeting illness cognitions in colorectal cancer couples may promote better coping and alleviate psychological distress.