The Psychosocial Experiences of Family Caregivers of Cancer Patients

Title

The Psychosocial Experiences of Family Caregivers of Cancer Patients

Creator

Mendes, Tanisha Immaculate Perpetua; Yeshaswini, V.

Description

Introduction: This study explores the psychosocial experiences of family caregivers of cancer patients, focusing on changes in their lives postdiagnosis, motivations for caregiving, challenges faced, coping mechanisms, and perceptions of caregiving. Understanding these experiences is crucial for enhancing support services for caregivers. Methods: A qualitative, exploratory study employing interpretative phenomenological analysis was conducted with 10 family caregivers. In?depth interviews were used to gather data on their lived experiences, which were analyzed to identify key themes. Results: Findings revealed significant emotional shifts, lifestyle adjustments, and changes in caregivers perceptions of the patient following the cancer diagnosis. Motivations for caregiving stemmed from external influences and personal attributes. Caregivers encountered multiple challenges, including lifestyle disruptions, emotional strain, financial difficulties, and a lack of support. Coping strategies involved prioritization, reliance on personal strengths, spirituality, family support, and rationalization, highlighting resilience and adaptability. Conclusion: Despite the difficulties, caregivers viewed their role as noble and transformative, maintaining a positive outlook and a deep concern for their loved ones well?being. These insights emphasize the need for healthcare providers to develop targeted support interventions to assist family caregivers in managing their responsibilities effectively 2025 Indian Journal of Social Psychiatry.

Source

Indian Journal of Social Psychiatry;Volume;41;Issue;4;pp.369-379

Date

01-01-2025

Publisher

Wolters Kluwer Medknow Publications

Subject

Cancer patients; caregivers; caregiving experience; family caregivers

Coverage

Mendes T.I.P., Department of Psychology, CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Karnataka, Bengaluru, India; Yeshaswini V., Department of Psychology, CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Karnataka, Bengaluru, India

Rights

All Open Access; Gold Open Access

Relation

ISSN: 9719962; CODEN: ISPSE

Format

online

Language

English

Type

Article

Identifier

https://doi.org/10.4103/ijsp.ijsp_262_24

https://www.scopus.com/pages/publications/105026233679?origin=resultslist