Psychological morbidity and autonomic reactivity to emotional stimulus in parental cancer: a study with adult children caregivers

• DOI: 10.1111/ecc.12102
• Publication Date: 2013-07-26T09:31:31Z
• Authors: R.J. Teixeira; M.G. Pereira
• Keywords: Skin conductance

Literature suggests that parental cancer can provoke aversive emotional arousal in adult children, who may perceive caregiving as a traumatic experience. Limited research has been conducted on and physiological impact of family for patients undergoing chemotherapy. The aim the present study was to examine psychological responses cancer's caregivers. Two matched groups with 78 participants each (parental vs. control), completed measures distress, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, burden. Additionally, participant visualised standardised pictures different valences, while cardiovascular (heart rate) electrodermal (skin conductance) were recorded. Between-group analysis showed significant differences all variables, skin conductance types pictures. However, heart rate responses, found only unpleasant arousal. In group, peak response stood out predictor PTSD after controlling distress This highlights important role psychophysiological oncology. Physiological explain higher prevalence symptoms. Therefore, biofeedback combined targeted psychosocial interventions relaxation could be great clinical value this population.