Content analysis of the emotions affecting caregivers of relatives with schizophrenia

Abstract

Understanding the emotions of caregiving is key for supporting families with an ill relative. This study explored how negative and positive emotions were experienced by caregivers and the meaning they attached to both types of emotions with regard to schizophrenia. Content analysis was conducted by two independent reviewers to extract and code family caregivers’ emotions according to Plutchik’s wheel of emotions. The findings of 23 qualitative studies identified in a previous systematic review were used for the analysis. The proportion of the emotions that were negative and positive was calculated by the effect of the illness. Two reviewers also synthesized the qualitative findings to describe the meaning of the emotional content. Regarding the negative effects of schizophrenia, the dominant emotions were fear, sadness, anger, followed by shame, and guilt. These negative emotions detached the caregivers from their relationships with their family, community, and society. Additionally, such emotions involved them in the past and the future and prevented them from living in the present. Regarding positive effects, the essential emotions were trust, joy, and love. The positive effects were described using three domains of favorable appraisal (i.e., interpersonal relationships, inner strength, and mutual behavior), in which the caregivers could develop a sense of belonging from the relationships with health professionals and the courage to manage difficult reality. Understanding the emotions of caregivers shows professionals how to emotionally support family members during the continuous process of caregiving, which may allow them to identify the meaningful aspects of the care experience.