Support patterns for spouse-caregivers of cancer patients. The effect of the presence of minor children.

This study examines the support received by spouse-caregivers of cancer patients with minor children. The pattern of help encountered by these caregivers is compared to that of other caregivers, either living alone with the cancer patient or together with their adult children. This comparison leads to an exploration of compensatory support patterns depending on the source of help and the living arrangements. The study is based on a convenience sample of 232 spouse-caregivers of cancer patients in the Midwest. The findings suggest that other family members are willing to provide additional support when minor children are present in the household of the caregiver-patient dyad. However, this compensatory pattern does not extend to the situation of caregiver and patient living alone, nor do friends and neighbors engage in compensatory support behavior.