Parenting stress, well-being, and social support among kinship caregivers

Elizabeth A. Sharda, Carolyn G. Sutherby, Daniel L. Cavanaugh, Anne K. Hughes, Amanda T. Woodward - Children and Youth Services Review

Abstract

Kinship caregivers are a large and growing population in the United States. It is therefore critical to understand this population and their unique challenges and needs. This study aims to add to existing knowledge by exploring the impact of caregiving on kinship caregivers, particularly the stress and social support they experience and the subsequent effect on their well-being. A sample of 152 kinship caregivers completed the Parental Stress Scale, as well as the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, and the Assessment of Quality of Life via an online survey. Results indicate that parental stress is negatively associated with caregiver well-being. Social support is positively associated with well-being. Social support does not moderate the relationship between parental stress and well-being. This study adds to previous research on kinship caregiving by exploring these variables among a variety of kinship caregivers including, but not limited to, grandparents. Implications for future research, practice, and policy are proposed.