The Partner Caregiver
A LOW/WARM conformity pattern coupled with a HIGH and WARM conversation pattern produces positive family learning for the Partner caregiver, with family members working on their own to adapt, cooperate with each other, and engage in emotions associated with caregiving. Partner caregivers present to others as supporter of the experiences of the care recipient. Caregiving is an emotionally intense experience for the Partner caregiver, who becomes entrenched in the adjustment process of chronic illness. Partner caregivers perceive their role to involve (a) support care recipient decision-making by trusting doctors and honoring his or her decisions; (b) advocating on behalf of care recipient in communication with doctors and the healthcare team, including asking questions and finding out more information about prognosis and future; and (c) emphasizing family harmony through collaborative efforts that involve taking time to converse as a family.