In this dyadic study, we examined diabetes distress experienced by male and female patients and their spouses (N = 185 couples), and its association with depressive symptoms using the Actor-Partner Interdependence Model. Diabetes-related distress reported by both patients and spouses was associated with each partner's own depressive symptoms…

Examined influence of interpersonal conflict, affection, and distress concerning dependency and caregiving satisfactions in predicting caregiver strain and negative emotion in 98 family caregivers. Found that interpersonal conflict between elderly carereceiver and caregiver predicted greatest amount of variance in both caregiver strain and…

Reviews the literature on primary caregivers and describes an educational model which assists primary caregivers in understanding the potential sources of family strain and support in caring for dependent older members. Provides participants with increased understanding of family dynamics, including the differential perceptions of family members…

Through interviews and observation, the impact of caring for an elderly parent or in-law on 30 women was studied. The study differentiated between care provision and care management. Social and behavioral precedents and consequences of the role were identified. Costs of caregiving were much greater for providers than managers. (Author/JAC)

Elderly adults (N=55) described situations provoking anger in relationships. Parental anger revolved around adult children's failure to adhere to family rules, accept parental control, and live up to role expectations. Filial anger was related to parental failure to provide assistance and accept child's autonomy. Anger between peers was related to…

Discusses problems of definition of elderly abuse. Examines data and research on the rates of elderly abuse and factors found related to elderly abuse. Critiques theories developed to explain the abuse of the elderly. Presents recommendations for research and practice. (RC)

Reviews research on changes in personality, social involvement, and roles which occur in the latter half of life, with a particular focus upon the differing and often divergent directions that men and women take. Considers the significance of these changes both to the individual and to marital harmony. (Author)

Discusses research and interventions related to family health care. Topics include health promotion; risk behaviors; vulnerability and illness onset; choosing health care systems; stress; caregiving and coping; family counseling; and family responses to Alzheimer's Disease, pediatric cancer, cystic fibrosis, diabetes, and obesity. (JAC)

Examines the role of social support in mitigating caregiving stress among two groups of parental caregivers (N=361). Results indicate that although mothers of adults with mental illness had smaller social support networks than mothers of adults with mental retardation, the former were more likely to be members of support groups. (RJM)