The benefits and costs of caregiving and care receiving for daughters and mothers.
In accordance with social exchange theory (Thibaut and Kelley, 1959), this study examined the outcomes of caregiving for elderly mothers and their caregiving daughters (N = 141 pairs). Data were gathered through face-to-face interviews. Principal components factor analyses revealed three factors for mothers: Helplessness, Feeling Loved, and Anger; and three factors for daughters: Insufficient Time, Frustration, and Anxiety. Block regressions with an initial block of demographic variables and a second block of situational variables were performed to determine the relative influence of these two sets of independent variables on caregiving outcomes. The regressions revealed limited influence of demographic variables and significant influence of situational variables. Of particular importance for daughters is the role of perceived intimacy with the mother: Daughters with better relationships experience fewer caregiving costs. Mothers' health plays a critical role in the outcomes of care receiving: Mothers in poorer health experience greater helplessness and are less likely to feel loved.
Walker
A J
AJ
Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, Oregon State University.
Martin
S S
SS
Jones
L L
LL
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D017028:Caregivers / Q000523:psychology*; D004644:Emotions; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D009034:Mother-Child Relations; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors; D013315:Stress, Psychological