[Critical social theory perspective on respite care service in Taiwan]

The temporary rest provided by respite care both benefits caregiver well-being and allows care receivers to continue living in the community, effectively reducing rates of institutional placement. The necessity and effectiveness of respite care are well documented in the literature. However, only a few care providers take advantage of such services. Previous research, which has focused largely on personal factors contributing to low utilization rates, limits our understanding of the situation and of the constraints not related to personal factors. This paper attempts to move beyond the individual perspective by framing research in critical social theory in order to understand the current social, political and economical factors that limit caregiver utilization of respite services. Critical social theory, a reflection theory, emphasizes empowerment and conscious-raising in order to promote control of oppressed subjects. In applying critical theory, this paper encourages nurses to raise caregivers' consciousness of their constraining circumstances in order to empower them to access respite services on their own volition.