[Personal and social resources enhancing coping in caregivers of major depression family members].

AIM: The aim of our study was to determine the relationship between personal and social resources and coping strategies with illness of family members with major depression in caregivers.

METHOD: 40 caregivers (16 men, 24 women) of patients (25 spouse, 15 parents) recruited during their in-patient psychiatric stay completed 4 self-report instruments (Mini-MAC, SOZ-U K-22, STV, LOT-R). The structural equation model (SEPATH) includes four latent exogenous constructs (Patient, Caregiver, Personal and Social support) measured by observed variables and two endogenous latent constructs (Active and Destructive Coping Strategies) loading by strategies: fighting spirit, positive reinterpretation, anxious preoccupation and helplessness-hopelessness. Overall, the model fits well.

RESULT AND CONCLUSION: The results of the study indicate, that a high level of dispositional optimism and perceived emotional support play a causal role in use of active coping strategies with illness of family members.