Differences in Reporting Spousal Care Between Men and Women in Europe
Author Information
Author(s): Vafaei Afshin, Rodrigues Ricardo, Simmons Cassandra, Zólyomi Eszter, Kadi Selma, Fors Stefan, Phillips Susan
Hypothesis
There are systematic differences in reporting spousal care between caregivers and cared-for persons across European welfare states.
Conclusion
Only 53.9% of caregiving dyads report care confirmed by both spouses, with men more likely to underreport care.
Supporting Evidence
- 53.9% of dyads report care confirmed by both spouses.
- Agreement on care provided/received is more common when women are caregivers.
- Men are more likely to underreport providing/receiving care.
- The association between depression symptoms and care varies according to the choice of respondent.
Takeaway
When people talk about who takes care of whom in families, men often say they do less than women say they do, which can lead to confusion about how much care is really being given.
Methodology
The study used data from the Survey on Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE) and applied multinomial and multivariate logistic regression models.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in self-reporting may lead to underestimation of care providers.
Limitations
The study may not account for all factors influencing reporting discrepancies, such as cultural differences.
Participant Demographics
Caregiving dyads across various European countries.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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