Dimensions of perceived social support in clinically depressed and nondepressed female caregivers

Psychol Aging. 1991 Jun;6(2):232-7. doi: 10.1037//0882-7974.6.2.232.

Abstract

The relationship between social support and depression was studied in 165 women caring for frail family members. The Arizona Social Support Interview Schedule (Barrera, Sandler, & Ramsay, 1981), which includes 4 dimensions of availability and use of resources and satisfaction with and need for support, was used to examine 7 categories of supportive activity. Depression was assessed according to Research Diagnostic Criteria (Spitzer, Endicott, & Robins, 1978) with the Schedule of Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia (Endicott & Spitzer, 1978). There were no differences in overall satisfaction with received support in comparisons of depressed and nondepressed caregivers. However, depressed caregivers (n = 87) reported a higher incidence of negative interactions with others. Both groups appeared to have equal access to social support, with nondepressed caregivers (n = 78) reporting significantly greater use of those resources.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Activities of Daily Living / psychology
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over / psychology
  • Depression / psychology*
  • Female
  • Frail Elderly / psychology*
  • Home Nursing / psychology*
  • Humans
  • Interpersonal Relations
  • Middle Aged
  • Personal Satisfaction
  • Respite Care / psychology*
  • Social Support*