Is There Emotional Contagion Between the Caregiver–Patient Dyad in Bronchial Asthma?

Abstract

The aim of this study is the relationship between psychological variables and adjustment to the disease in patients and their primary family caregivers to analyze the possible existence of emotional contagion between them. A total of 150 caregiver–patient dyads participated. The results indicate higher levels of anxious-depressive symptomatology in the caregiver than in the patient. The caregiver's presence of anxiety and depression is related to lower scores in quality of life, self-esteem, and a more significant perceived threat of illness. The caregivers’ emotional adjustment is predicted by their own variables (stress, need for approval and hostile conflict resolution) and by those of the patient (self-esteem, threat of illness and quality of life). In the patient's case, their adjustment was mainly explained by their own variables and caregiver's perceived stress. Parents and other primary caregivers provide attention, care, and love and can promote a safe environment for emotional adjustment in patients.