Using Dyadic Modeling in Nursing Research: Introduction of Theory and Application

Abstract

Use of dyadic modeling in nursing has theoretical and practical importance, as the interpersonal processes related to health behaviors can be captured. Theoretical models focusing on dyadic coping with chronic illness and illness management are established in family nursing. However, few studies utilized dyadic designs in empirical research, as most studies are patient-centric or care partner-centric. With theoretical elaborations and examples, we first review how conventional health models have been extended using a dyadic perspective and then briefly review the major dyadic frameworks in nursing. Five frequently used dyadic models are described with examples from health and nursing research fields. Statistical applications and cultural considerations are reviewed. We conclude that dyadic modeling provides a useful lens for nursing research but continues to be underutilized.

Social Support, Parenting Self‐Efficacy, and Postpartum Depression Among Chinese Parents: The Actor‐Partner Interdependence Mediation Model

“…The extension from an individual level to a dyadic level enables the identification of variable change at a family level. 32 Furthermore, a dyadic perspective of mental health within nursing practice settings has been advocated in recent years. 33 Thus, we applied a dyadic perspective and approach in the present study to explore the relationships between social support, parenting self-efficacy, and postpartum depression in parents using the actor-partner interdependence mediation model (APIMeM).…”

“…Research at an individual level may neglect the interpersonal structure in which the mother and the father are embedded. The extension from an individual level to a dyadic level enables the identification of variable change at a family level 32 . Furthermore, a dyadic perspective of mental health within nursing practice settings has been advocated in recent years 33 .…”