The Relationship of Predeath Grief, Burden, and Empathetic Pain in Family Caregivers
Author Information
Author(s): Chrzanowski Lauren, McLean Elisabeth, Singer Jonathan
Primary Institution: Texas Tech University
Hypothesis
Higher pre-death grief and caregiver burden would result in higher rates of empathetic pain for family caregivers.
Conclusion
Higher pre-death grief and caregiver burden can lead to empathetic pain in family caregivers.
Supporting Evidence
- Higher pre-death grief scores were associated with an increased likelihood of endorsing empathetic pain.
- Higher caregiver burden scores were also linked to an increased likelihood of experiencing empathetic pain.
Takeaway
When family caregivers feel sad about their loved ones' pain, they might also feel pain themselves. The more sad and burdened they feel, the more likely they are to experience this empathetic pain.
Methodology
The study measured pre-death grief and caregiver burden using specific scales and assessed empathetic pain through a single item question.
Participant Demographics
Family members of persons with advanced cancer and dementia.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
[1.041, 1.161]
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website