The Impact of Marital Quality on Eating Habits and Depression

Researcher(s)

  • Natalie Maurer, Human Services, University of Delaware

Faculty Mentor(s)

  • Dr. Lisa Jaremka, Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Delaware

Abstract

While working in the Close Relations Lab, we have been looking at distressed couples and their relationships with eating habits and depression. While doing so, we have the couple track eating habits to better analyze their patterns of eating, depression, and marital distress. This is followed through a variety of ways including monitoring their responses to conflict discussions, blood pressure, heart rate, and food choices. We are interested in helping these couples navigate their conflict using techniques that reduce stress during these conversations. This is important because a lot of people are distressed in their relationships and it is important to look at their relationship with eating and depression along with marital distress.