Coping and guilt in informal caregivers: a predictive model based on structural equations

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Psychology
• Sociology

Background:

• Caregivers of older adults often experience significant psychological stress.
• Coping strategies play a crucial role in mediating caregiver stress levels.
• Guilt can act as a mediator between maladaptive coping and perceived stress.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the effects of various coping strategies on the distress experienced by informal caregivers of institutionalized older adults.
• To examine the mediating role of guilt in the relationship between maladaptive coping strategies and caregiver stress.
• To identify specific coping mechanisms associated with reduced stress and increased guilt.

Main Methods:

• A sample of 201 informal caregivers of institutionalized older adults participated in the study.
• Data were collected on caregiver stress, feelings of guilt, and coping strategies employed.
• Statistical analyses were used to determine the predictive relationships between coping strategies, guilt, and stress.

Main Results:

• Active coping strategies, such as positive reframing and acceptance, were associated with reduced caregiver stress.
• Maladaptive strategies, including behavioral disengagement, self-distraction, self-blame, and venting, positively predicted feelings of guilt.
• Guilt was found to facilitate the perception of stress among caregivers.

Conclusions:

• The findings highlight the detrimental impact of maladaptive coping and guilt on caregiver well-being.
• Psychoeducational interventions focusing on reducing guilt and promoting adaptive cognitive-behavioral strategies are recommended for caregivers.
• Targeted interventions can help caregivers develop better coping mechanisms to manage stress and psychological distress effectively.