MethodsFamily functioning (FACES-IV), expressed emotion (FQ), family burden (FBS) and psychological well being (GHQ- 28) were assessed in relatives of 30 FEP and 30 chronic patients.
ResultsMultivariable linear regression models adjusted for confounders revealed that relatives of chronic patients scored significantly lower in balanced cohesion (β coefficient -4.27, 95% CI: -08.03, -1.71) and balanced flexibility (β coefficient -4.01, 95% CI: -6.91, -1.10), as well as communication (β coefficient -6.61, 95% CI: -11.70, -1.50) and satisfaction scales (β coefficient -7.32, 95% CI: -13.23, -1.41). Relatives caring for a chronic patient had significantly higher scores in critical comments (β coefficient 7.81, 95% CI: 3.95, 11.68) and emotional overinvolvement (β coefficient 3.70, 95% CI: 0.24, 7.16). They, also, reported higher objective (β coefficient 12.23, 95% CI: 3.76, 20.71) and subjective (β coefficient 2.79, 95% CI: 0.45, 5.14) burden, as well as poorer psychological well being (β coefficient 12.23, 95% CI: 3.76, 20.71).