Family caregiver responses to dementia

Jarvis, Adam Thomas

Abstract

This portfolio thesis consists of three parts:

Part one is a systematic review of extant literature aiming to present an understanding of the factors associated with psychological wellbeing amongst family caregivers of individuals with dementia. Previous work has been limited in its coverage of care-recipient, caregiver and systemic associates with spousal and family caregiver as well as the constructs of psychological wellbeing measured. After a systematic search of the literature and application of inclusion and exclusion criteria, 11 studies were included for review. Findings were compared across studies and methodological quality evaluated. The findings were compared to theories presented in existing models of caregiving and future research and clinical implications discussed.

Part two is an empirical paper focusing on care-recipient challenging behaviour and its relationship with spousal/family caregiver attributions, emotional responses and willingness to help. A gap in the literature was identified in relation to whether Weiner’s (1985) cognitive-emotional model of helping behaviour could be applied to the help-giving behaviour of family caregivers of individuals with dementia. Fifty-two spousal and family members providing care for an individual with dementia at home participated in a cross-sectional, quantitative study. Regression analyses were used to test the suitability of a mediator model to caregiver willingness to help. The results did not support the model tested. However it replicated findings from previous work, suggesting important roles for optimism and sympathy. It was not possible to discern precise functions from the present findings. Implications for future research and within the clinical context were discussed.

Part three comprises of the appendices in order to supplement parts one and two, and a reflective statement describing the experience of conducting the research project culminating in this portfolio thesis.

Citation

Jarvis, A. T. Family caregiver responses to dementia. (Thesis). University of Hull. https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/4213557

• Thesis Type: Thesis
• Deposit Date: Dec 12, 2012
• Publicly Available Date: Feb 22, 2023
• Keywords: Clinical psychology
• Public URL: https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/4213557
• Additional Information: Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychological Therapies, The University of Hull
• Award Date: Jun 1, 2012