Implications of social isolation, separation, and loss during the COVID-19 pandemic for couples' relationships

• Published in: Current opinion in psychology 2022-02, Vol.43, p.189-194
• Main Authors: Pietromonaco, Paula R., Overall, Nickola C.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Attachment; Close relationships; COVID-19 pandemic; Review; Stress and coping; Support
• ISSN: 2352-250X; 2352-250X
• DOI: 10.1016/j.copsyc.2021.07.014

The broad isolation, separation, and loss resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic raise risks for couples' relationship quality and stability. Guided by the vulnerability–stress–adaptation model, we suggest that how pandemic-related loss, isolation, and separation impact couples' relationships will vary depending on the amount and severity of pandemic-related stress, together with enduring personal vulnerabilities (e.g. attachment insecurity), both of which can disrupt adaptive dyadic responses to these challenges. A review of emerging research examining relationship functioning before and during the initial stages of the pandemic offers support for this framework. We draw on additional research to suggest pathways for mitigating relationship disruptions and promoting resilience. •COVID-19–related stress may disrupt couples' relationship functioning.•Disruptions depend on severity of stress and pre-existing vulnerabilities.•Couples' trajectories therefore will vary from chronic distress to stable resilience.•Effective communication and support will help mitigate risks.•Engaging together in enjoyable or novel activities will support resilience.