Primary caregivers of schizophrenia outpatients: Burden and predictor variables

Abstract

This paper explores family burden in relation to relatives' coping strategies and social network, as well as in relation to the patients’ severity of positive and negative symptoms. Data on the severity of symptoms (PANSS), social functioning (SFS), caregivers burden (ECFOS), coping skills (FCQ), and social support (SNQ) were gathered from a randomized sample of 101 Chilean outpatients and their primary caregivers, mostly mothers. Low levels of burden were typically found, with the exception of moderate levels on general concerns for the ill relative. A hierarchical regression analysis with four blocks showed that clinical characteristics, such as higher frequency of relapses, more positive symptoms and lower independence-performance, together with lower self-control attributed to the patient, decrease in social interests, and less affective support, predict burden. The results support the relevance of psychoeducational interventions where families’ needs are addressed.