Cognitive coping, goal adjustment, and depressive and anxiety symptoms in people undergoing infertility treatment: a prospective study

J Health Psychol. 2010 Sep;15(6):876-86. doi: 10.1177/1359105309357251. Epub 2010 May 7.

Abstract

The relationships between cognitive coping strategies, goal adjustment, and symptoms of depression and anxiety were studied in people with fertility problems. Both cross-sectional and prospective relationships were studied in a sample of 313 patients attending an infertility clinic. Self-report questionnaires were filled out at home. Positive refocusing, rumination and catastrophizing, and goal reengagement were related to symptoms of depression and anxiety. When looking at the long-term effects, rumination and catastrophizing were also related to emotional problems nine months later. These findings suggest that intervention programs should focus on cognitive coping strategies and goal-based processes.

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Psychological*
  • Adult
  • Anxiety / diagnosis
  • Anxiety / physiopathology*
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Depression / diagnosis
  • Depression / physiopathology*
  • Female
  • Goals*
  • Humans
  • Infertility / psychology*
  • Infertility / therapy*
  • Male
  • Netherlands
  • Prospective Studies
  • Surveys and Questionnaires