Understanding Young People's Relationship Breakups Using the Dual Processing Model of Coping and Bereavement

ABSTRACT

The aim of the current study was to explore young people’s experiences of and adjustment to romantic relationship breakup by reference to the Dual Processing Model of Coping and Bereavement (DPM; Stroebe & Schut, 1999). Participants were 31 registered forum users and 10 forum moderators. Findings were based on thematic analyses of messages posted on an Internet-mediated discussion forum over a 12-month period. Coping responses include availing of emotional support, self-expression, distraction, and indulgence in substance use or changes in eating behaviors. There appeared to be a reprioritization of values and opportunities for personal development and engagement in new and fulfilling relationships. The themes identified in the analysis broadly map onto the main elements of the DPM.

KEYWORDS:

• Break-up
• coping
• dual processing model
• relationship dissolution
• young people

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Aidan McKiernan

Aidan McKiernan, PhD, owns Dr. Aidan McKiernan Psychological Consultancy. He is senior clinical psychologist at LauraLynn Ireland’s Children’s Hospice and a chartered clinical psychologist with the Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI). He holds a bachelor’s degree and a PhD in psychology from University College Dublin, as well as a PhD in clinical psychology from the University of Limerick. He is a former council member of PSI and former chair of the Division of Clinical Psychology at PSI, author of over 30 papers and presentations, and lecturer on professional training programs at the National University of Ireland and Trinity College Dublin.

Patrick Ryan

Patrick Ryan, DClinPsych, is the director of the doctoral program in clinical psychology at the University of Limerick, Ireland. He is a graduate of The Queens University of Belfast. A clinical psychologist for 17 years, he has been involved in the training of mental health professionals for 10 years with a particular interest in the area of life span development and its contribution to understanding family relations.

Eimear McMahon

Eimear McMahon, DClinPsych, was awarded a higher diploma in psychology in 2004 and a master’s of psychological science from University College Dublin in 2007. She completed her doctorate in clinical psychology from Trinity College Dublin in 2012 and is a clinical psychologist at the Health Service Executive of Ireland.

Stephen Bradley

Stephen Bradley, MSc, was awarded a bachelor of arts degree (Honors) in psychology in 2004. He completed a master of science degree in applied psychology in Trinity College Dublin, where he also became an adjunct teaching fellow in 2016. He is currently a trainee clinical psychologist at the University of Manchester.

Ellen Butler

Ellen Butler, BA, MSc, is currently a trainee clinical psychologist at Trinity College Dublin. She completed her master of science in mental health studies in King’s College London. She has worked in inpatient and outpatient settings with clients across the lifespan. She has published in the areas of health psychology, mental health stigma, and relationship breakup.