Applying a resource model of stress to the cancer caregiver experience

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this study was to apply a resource model of stress and coping to explaining the relationship between burden of care, perceived stress, optimism, resilience, self-efficacy, perceived support and psychological distress, and to test the role of satisfaction with medical care in the process.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey using questionnaire measures was conducted with a group of 269 female cancer caregivers who were caring for a spouse, a parent or a child with cancer. Participants were accessed via an oncology clinic.

Results: Analysis supported the resource model showing that psychological resources and social support mediate the impact of burden of care on caregiver mental health. Satisfaction with medical care added to the explanatory power of the model.

Conclusions: This study provides support for a resource model of stress and the potential utility of resource building interventions in terms of increased social support and the development of psychological resources such as resilience skills. In addition it points to the importance of positive experience of health care services for caregivers and suggests that this may be a fruitful way to improve their quality of life.