Role playing

Background: As with most of the chronic illnesses, the changes and consequences brought on by bipolar disorder (BD) are not exclusive to the patient and often spread to those around them, especially for direct caregivers of these patients. It is known that there is a significant emotional and physical toll among persons who coexist daily with those who suffer from this disorder.

Basic knowledge regarding schizophrenia, having positive attitudes towards it, and possessing the necessary care skills are crucial aspects for caregivers have in order to provide sustainable care for a relative with schizophrenia. Coaching can facilitate successful caregiving through the understanding of a caregiver's knowledge, attitudes, and skills. This study examined the effectiveness of a coaching program in enhancing family caregivers' knowledge, attitudes, and skills related to caring for persons with schizophrenia. 100 primary family caregivers were randomly recruited.

The provision of care within families, and specifically the difficulties within such relationships, has become the focus of much research, legislation and debate in recent years. This paper explores carers' and carees' talk about 'stress', home-based care. Carers' and carees' accounts are presented to theorise the construction of difficulties in the present relationship--focusing in particular on the taking up of or resistance to roles and responsibilities within the family.