The Relationship Between Mutuality, Filial Piety, and Depression in Family Caregivers in China

PURPOSE: Caregiving to parent stroke survivors in China is increasing and adult child-parent relationships are being challenged. The purpose of this study was to explore whether mutuality and filial piety have a protective role against caregiver depression. DESIGN: A cross-sectional correlational study was conducted with a nonproportional quota sample of 126 caregivers. Surveys were conducted at hospitals or in homes using structured questionnaires: the 15-item Mutuality Scale, the 4-item Filial Attitude Scale, the 9-item Filial Behavior Scale, and the 10-item Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale. RESULTS: Higher mutuality and stronger filial attitudes were significantly associated with less caregiver depression after the covariates were controlled. Mutuality explained 5.5% ( p < .01) and filial attitude explained 4.6% ( p < .01) of the variance in caregiver depression. CONCLUSION: Mutuality and filial attitude may be protective factors against caregiver depression. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Supportive strategies can be implemented to enhance mutuality and filial attitude.