Perceptions of Caregiver Distress, Health Behaviors, and Provider Health-Promoting Communication and their Relationship to Stress Management in MS Caregivers

Authors

Lauren Penwell-Waines, Georgia Regents University
Marie-Christine Goodworth, George Fox UniversityFollow
Rhonda S. Casillas
Lara Stepleman, Georgia Regents University

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2016

Abstract

This study applied the Stress/Health Model to examine a novel approach for promoting stress management among 67 caregivers of persons with multiple sclerosis, who often face unique caregiving challenges. Hierarchical regressions indicated that caregiver distress (i.e., emotional burden) and engagement in other health-promoting activities (i.e., controlling alcohol use) were the best predictors of caregiver stress management. Communication with the MS care recipient’s health provider about caregiver engagement in health-promoting activities was associated with caregiver stress management, but not significantly more so than explained by the other factors (i.e., caregiver distress and engagement in health-promoting behaviors). A more controlled study would be indicated to further explain how to encourage, within the medical setting, caregiver engagement in self-care activities.

Comments

Originally published in Health Communication, 31:4, 478-484, DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2014.967909

Recommended Citation

Penwell-Waines, Lauren; Goodworth, Marie-Christine; Casillas, Rhonda S.; and Stepleman, Lara, "Perceptions of Caregiver Distress, Health Behaviors, and Provider Health-Promoting Communication and their Relationship to Stress Management in MS Caregivers" (2016). Faculty Publications - Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) Program. 316.
https://digitalcommons.georgefox.edu/gscp_fac/316