Relationship among psychological distress, adult attachment,and social support in primary caregivers of cancer patients / 中国心理卫生杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective:To explore the relationship among psychological distress,adult attachment,and social support in primary caregivers of cancer patients.Methods:A total of 208 primary caregivers of cancer patients in one third grade hospital in Anhui Province were recruited.The 10-item Kessler Psychological Distress Scale(K10),Experiences in Close Relationships Inventory(ECR) and Social Support Questionnaire(SSQ) were used to explore psychological distress,adult attachment,and social support status.Results:The average K10 score was (21.5 ± 7.5).Multiple linear regression analysis indicated that caregiver gender,pressure on patient care,and attachment anxiety had positive prediction on psychological distress (β =2.30,3.02,0.13),while residence had negative prediction on psychological distress (β =-3.22).Conclusion:It suggests that the psychological distress is related to attachment anxiety and social support among the primary caregivers.