Men as caregivers: reciprocal relationships or obligation?

This study explored reciprocity in the relationships of men caregivers of c ognitively impaired older adults. Reciprocity is a dimension of social supp ort that is important in caregivers' ability to sustain supportive relation ships. Equity theory predicts that inequitable (non-reciprocal) exchanges w ill result in termination of relationships. The objective of the study was to identify the context in which reciprocity was present or absent, the cha racteristics of reciprocity in caregivers' relationships with the care reci pient, family and friends, and the men's feelings about reciprocal social s upport during caregiving. Twenty-two men caregivers were interviewed three times over 18 months. Study findings were confirmed in a focus group discus sion with seven caregivers. Three variations in reciprocity in the men's re lationship with the care recipient were identified: waived reciprocity, gen eralized reciprocity and constructed reciprocity. Those experiencing constr ucted or generalized reciprocity described positive feelings, whereas men i dentifying waived reciprocity described either positive or negative feeling s. When reciprocity was absent the men described giving care on the basis o f obligation with either mixed or negative feelings. Reciprocity in relatio nships with friends and family is also described. The study findings suppor t the assumptions of equity theory about reciprocity; however, perceptions of obligation may be better understood in the context of the principles of justice and caring.