Kim, Y., Schulz, R., & Carver, C. S. (2007). Benefit finding in the cancer caregiving experience. Psychosomatic Medicine, 69, 283-291.
Objective: Even though
cancer is a problem that involves the entire family, little is known
about which caregivers of cancer survivors are likely to find meaning
in their caregiving experience or about the relation of benefit finding
to caregivers’ psychological adjustment. This study aimed to (a)
characterize the domains of benefit finding in caregiving among close
family members of cancer survivors and (b) relate the domains of
benefit finding in cancer caregiving to other psychosocial variables.
Methods: A total of 896 family
caregivers participated in the ACS Quality of Life Survey for
Caregivers. Participating caregivers were primarily middle-aged (mean
age 54), educated (76% > high school degree), and affluent (69% ≥
$40,000 annual household income).
Results: Six domains of benefit
finding in caregiving were identified by principal axis factor
analysis: acceptance, empathy, appreciation, family, positive
self-view, and reprioritization. The comparison between six- and
one-domain models of benefit finding revealed the superiority of the
six-domain model. A series of hierarchical regression analyses revealed
that the domains of benefit finding were uniquely associated with life
satisfaction and depression, and that not all aspects of benefit
finding in caregiving relate to better adjustment. Specifically, coming
to accept what happened and appreciating new relationships with others
related to greater adaptation. Becoming more empathic toward others and
reprioritizing values related to greater symptoms of depression.
Conclusions: These findings
suggest that caregivers may benefit from interventions that enhance
their ability to accept their situation and find meaning in their
caregiving experience, which may improve their satisfaction with life
and reduce depressive symptoms.
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