Effectance, social self-esteem, and partner satisfaction in infertile female partners.

다국어 초록 (Multilingual Abstract)

This study investigated the relationship between effectance, social self-esteem, and partner satisfaction. Family and role theory were utilized as the theoretical rationale for the study. The participants were 77 female partners who had been trying, unsuccessfully, to conceive for at least twelve months and were attending the office of an infertility specialist for the purpose of achieving pregnancy.
A correlational survey design was used to test the hypothesis that effectance and social self esteem would be individually and collectively related to partner satisfaction in infertile women. Two survey instruments were used to measure the variables. The Multidimensional Self-Esteem Inventory (MSEI) was used to measure the independent variables, effectance and social self-esteem. The Partner Relationship Inventory (PRI) was used to measure the dependent variable, partner satisfaction.
Women who agreed to participate were sent a survey packet which included the survey instruments and a demographic information sheet. It was requested that the questionnaire booklets be completed and returned to the investigator by mail in an enclosed stamped, addressed envelope.
The hypothesis was tested by multiple regression analysis. The results indicated that both effectance and social self-esteem were significant predictors of partner satisfaction. Social self-esteem was found to be the most important contributor to partner satisfaction, followed by effectance.
From the present study, it can be concluded that an infertile woman's partner satisfaction is largely determined by her perceived degree of acceptance and involvement in social relationships as well as her overall self-evaluation. The findings of the present study have implications for health care professionals who seek to maintain the integrity of the partner relationships of infertile women. Those professionals must engage in conversations with patients about their self-esteem and partner relationships, encourage participation in supportive relationships with significant others, and support their patient's informational needs. Health care providers who attend to the self-esteem and partner satisfaction of infertile women will help to enhance their clients' journeys through their experience with the infertility situation.