More Than the Work

Abstract

This study examines race and gender differences in the burden experienced by family caregivers of the elderly using data from the 1990 Informal Caregivers Survey. Social exchange theory predicts burden to a certain extent based on the caregiving context (e.g., psychological difficulties of the elder and positive aspects of caregiving) and work performed (e.g., hours per week and specific tasks), but race and gender differences independent of the context suggest that feeling burdened also depends on identities embodied in gender roles and African American culture. Also predictive of burden is the interaction between race and gender, and although African American and White women face similar caregiving situations, African American women report less burden than White women or men of either race.