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Title: Psycho-Social Challenges and Coping Strategies of Caregivers of Thalassemia Patients in District Gujrat
Authors: Arooj Sikandar, Asiya Anwar, Afzaal Afzal, Marwa Nayab
Journal: Journal of Asian Development Studies
Publisher: Centre for Research on Poverty and Attitude pvt ltd
Country: Pakistan
Year: 2024
Volume: 13
Issue: 1
Language: English
DOI: 10.62345/jads.2024.13.1.78
Keywords: ThalassemiaCaregiversPsycho-social ChallengesGenetic Blood Disorder
Thalassemia is a chronic, life-threatening genetic blood disorder that has numerous socio-economic and health impacts on patients, caregivers and families globally. The issue of thalassemia is rapidly increasing among infants and children, and a large proportion of the affected population is living in developing countries like Pakistan. The patients suffering from the chronic issue bear symptoms such as pale skin, weakness, shortness of breath and jaundice. Thalassemia has severe complications with long-lasting consequences on the patients as well as their caregivers. Limited health care services, lack of social support, misconceptions about the condition, the stigma and discrimination within their families and communities can lead to disruption of their physical, cognitive, social and economic conditions. Several coping mechanisms are applied to deal with discomfort that could manage stress-related demands that arise due to environmental transactions that eventually exceed personal resources. The present study examined the psycho-social challenges faced by caregivers of thalassemia patients and identified the coping strategies employed by these caregivers in Gujrat city. Researchers used the purposive sampling technique for this quantitative study to collect primary data through a structured questionnaire. The findings highlighted that the caregivers of thalassemia patients face various psychological challenges such as depression, fear of losing a loved one life, and feelings of isolation. This can negatively impact the overall well-being of the caregiver. Additionally, they face social challenges, including social stigma and limitations in maintaining social connections.
To examine the psycho-social challenges faced by caregivers of thalassemia patients in Gujrat city and to identify the coping strategies employed by these caregivers.
This quantitative study employed a purposive sampling technique to collect primary data through a structured questionnaire from caregivers of thalassemia patients in Gujrat district, Pakistan. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis in SPSS.
graph TD
A["Identify Caregivers of Thalassemia Patients in Gujrat"] --> B["Administer Structured Questionnaire"];
B --> C["Collect Data"];
C --> D["Edit and Enter Data into SPSS"];
D --> E["Perform Descriptive Analysis"];
E --> F["Perform Regression Analysis"];
F --> G["Interpret Results"];
G --> H["Draw Conclusions and Recommendations"];
The study highlights that effective coping strategies are crucial for the well-being of caregivers, leading to reduced stress and improved quality of life. Psychological challenges like loss of interest and hopelessness are prevalent, mirroring findings from other studies. Lack of awareness about thalassemia and its genetic nature, along with the substantial economic burden of treatment, are identified as significant social and economic challenges. Caregivers utilize a range of strategies including active avoidance, problem-focused, religious, and emotion-focused coping.
Caregivers of thalassemia patients experience significant psychological challenges such as depression, fear of losing a loved one, and feelings of isolation. They also face social challenges including social stigma and limitations in maintaining social connections. The study found a positive association between psychological and social challenges and the adoption of coping strategies.
Caregivers of thalassemia patients face considerable psychological and social challenges that negatively impact their well-being. However, they employ various coping strategies, with support from family and friends being vital. Seeking professional help, engaging in relaxation, and positive thinking are identified as effective coping mechanisms. Adequate support, resources, counseling services, and educational programs are essential for caregivers.
- The study was conducted in District Gujrat, Pakistan. (Confirmed in Introduction and Materials and Methods)
- A total of 260 questionnaires were collected. (Confirmed in Materials and Methods)
- The R-square value indicates that 24.2% of the variation in coping strategies is explained by the independent variables. (Confirmed in Regression Analysis, Table 5)
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