How Early-Life Family Experiences Shape Adult Caregiving for Aging Parents

Researchers at the University of Wisconsin–Madison Sandra Rosenbaum School of Social Work are seeking participants for a study examining how early-life family experiences influence adult caregiving for aging parents. The study focuses on understanding how adult children make sense of their caregiving experiences when earlier family histories included emotionally challenging or conflictual relationships with parents, including experiences they consider harmful or neglectful.

You may be eligible if you:

Currently reside in the United States
Are 18 years or older
Are comfortable engaging in an in-depth conversation in English
Are currently an unpaid caregiver for at least one parent
Have experienced emotionally challenging or conflictual relationships with the parent you are now caring for

Participation involves a 1-hour confidential interview by phone or video and a brief online survey (about 3 minutes). Questions will cover your childhood experiences and current caregiving. Interviews are conducted with care and sensitivity. Participants will receive a $30 electronic gift card upon completion.

We value the voices of family caregivers who support their aging parents. Their experiences provide important insights into the complexities of caregiving. Findings from this study will help inform the development of programs that effectively support caregivers in managing both the emotional and practical aspects of their role.

For more information, please contact Dr. Jooyoung Kong, MSW, PhD (Principal Investigator, University of Wisconsin–Madison) at UWCaregiverStudy@mailplus.wisc.edu or 608-265-5913. You can access the screening questionnaire here: https://bit.ly/uwcare.

Thank you for your interest.