Experiences of the Male Caregivers of Schizophrenic Patients: A Phenomenological Study

Abstract

Purpose: In this study, it was aimed to determine the experiences of male caregivers of people with schizophrenia.

Methods: The study had a phenomenological design as a qualitative research method. Using the purposeful sampling method, 19 male caregivers were included in the study. In-depth interviews were conducted with participants using a semi-structured interview form.

Results: In the thematic analysis, three categories were identified: "The effect of the disorder on male caregivers", "male caregivers' perceptions about the disorder", and "coping patterns of male caregivers". In addition, three themes and 15 sub-themes were determined.

Conclusion: The study has revealed that male caregivers of schizophrenic patients face many problems in their emotional, social, economic, family and work lives; they need support and information in coping with these problems; and they tend to receive institutional and social support and use spiritual coping strategies in their caregiving.