WeChat use among family caregivers of people living with schizophrenia and its relationship to caregiving experiences. (October 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Zang, Di-fan; Zhang, Xian-tao; Li, Yi-lu; Li, Tong-xin; Xiao, Shui-yuan; Tebes, Jacob Kraemer; Yu, Yu
• Is Part Of: Computers in human behavior. Volume 123(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-10
• Subjects: Social media -- WeChat -- Caregiving -- Schizophrenia -- Social support; Interactive computer systems -- Periodicals; Man-machine systems -- Periodicals; 004.019
• DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2021.106877
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0747-5632

Abstract

Abstract: This study examines WeChat use among family caregivers of persons living with schizophrenia (PLS), its socio-demographic correlates and relationship to caregiving experiences, including perceived stress, stigma, coping, social support, family functioning, and caregiving rewarding feelings. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 449 family caregivers of PLS. Face-to-face interviews were conducted to collect information on socio-demographics, WeChat use, and a range of caregiving experiences. The results indicated that nearly half (46.8%) of caregivers were WeChat users. WeChat use was associated with higher education ( OR = 3.34–9.88, 95% CI : 2.01, 24.77), and younger age ( OR = 0.94, 95% CI : 0.92, 0.97). Compared to non-users, WeChat users reported less stigma ( b = −1.84, 95% CI : −3.40, −0.28), higher social support ( b = 6.62, 95% CI : 2.73, 10.50), better family functioning ( b = 1.08, 95% CI : 0.38, 1.78), and more caregiving rewarding feelings ( b = 3.93, 95% CI : 2.01, 5.85). WeChat use among caregivers of PLS was lower than that found in the general population, which warrants specific attention to this group with alternative support and resources provided to them. WeChat use is associated with more favorable caregiving experiences, and thus serves as a promising medium for further health intervention to support family caregivers, and improve their well-being. Highlights: The first study to examine WeChat use in family caregivers of schizophrenia and its relationship to caregiving experiences. WeChat rate was 46.8% among caregivers, which was higher among those with younger age and higher education. WeChat users had less stigma, higher social support, better family functioning, and more caregiving rewarding feelings. WeChat serves as a promising medium for further health intervention to support family caregivers.