QUALITY OF LIFE FUNCTIONING IN SCHIZOPHRENICS AND FAMILY BURDEN IN CARE GIVERS OF SCHIZOPHRENICS: AN ORIGINAL RESEARCH

Abstract

Aim The purpose of the present research was to assess the family burden as well as quality of life functioning in cases of family members of patients suffering from schizophrenia. Methodology This was a cross‑sectional study. A total of 120 schizophrenia patients and their cdsf caregivers (60 patients suffering from schizophrenia and 60 of their caregivers/ family members) were included in this study. Standardized instruments were administered to patients (WHOQOL scale) as well as to caregivers (BAS scale) to collect data regarding symptomatology in patients and perceived burden and QoL in their caregivers. Results The mean age of caregivers was 40.49 ± 12.65 years, and of patients was 37.45 ± 9.55. Caregivers burden was also significantly and positively correlated with manifestation of negative symptoms in patients (r = 0.287; P = 0.013), but with other variables, it had a nonsignificant correlation. QoL was significantly correlated with burden on caregivers (r = −0.478; P = 0.0001) and duration of illness of patients (r = 0.243; P = 0.014).