Sociocultural variations of sleep difficulties’ coping strategies in couple relationships in Canada and in Brazil

Abstract

Introduction Sleep is a natural phenomenon that is deeply imbedded in cultural contexts where it takes place. However, contemporary sleep theories reflect mainly the north western industrialized society. This study explores the experience of sleep difficulties in everyday life of Canadian and Brazilian couples focusing on possible sociocultural variations. Materials and methods Five heterosexual couples without children aged between 24–47 years were recruited in Quebec-Canada and Fortaleza-Brazil. At least one partner reported having sleep problems. Participants attended two meetings one week apart: 1) completion of self- reported questionnaires (PSQI & DAS- 16); 2) couple in-depth semi-structured interview. During the seven days between both meetings, partners wrote free reports about their previous night of sleep. Quantitative and qualitative data analyses were performed. The phenomenological method was used to analyze interview data. The cross- cultural comparison helped to highlight the relevant aspects of each context. Results Regardless of city, the experiences of sleep difficulties are mostly associated with professional- and adult lives-related stress that reflect symptoms of insomnia. Respondents self-reported satisfaction in their couple relationship and adoption of personal strategies to cope with sleep difficulties that seem to be influenced by their choice of marital status and the values rooted in their societies. In Quebec, where common-law union predominates, partners’ strategies are more cooperative, focused on both partners. They seek a balance between their autonomy, freedom and well-being in bed-sharing/couple relationship. In Fortaleza, where marriage predominates, partners’ strategies are more focused on oneself or in favor of another in a greater specialization of tasks and complementary roles. Conclusion Negative consequences of sleep difficulties in couples daily life seem to be overcome by the desire of being together in a healthy relationship. The strategies employed seem to shade the clinical aspect of sleep difficulties and to function as a ”regulator” of what could affect the proper functioning of their union. The experience of healthy relationships seems then to promote appropriate behaviors related to sleep, but do not, necessarily, assure the lack of sleep difficulties within the couple. Recognition of the dyadic nature of sleep could contribute to the identification of the diagnosis and the management of sleep disorders and deserves further attention in other studies. Acknowledgements A grateful thanks to the collaborating Canadian and Brazilian couples who made possible the study data collection and analysis.