Reaching the Breaking Point:

This study was designed to examine the phenomenon of mistreatment associated with mood disturbance of the caregiver in elder caregiving situations. The data were obtained from 110 caregivers aged 55 and over caring for a physically or mentally ill elder at home. A causal model was developed to examine the effects of personal and situational variables on mistreatment by abuse or neglect. Results indicated there were seven predictors of potential to mistreat: total mood disturbance, an external locus of control orientation, a low level of social support, income inadequacy, poor physical health, and two emotional coping strategies. These variables accounted for 46% of the variance.