Primary Caregiving in Collectivistic Family Systems: A Review of Caregiver Burden, Emotional Labor, and Well-Being

Abstract

The present review examines primary caregiving within collectivistic family systems, focusing on its effects on the mental and physical well-being of caregivers. Utilizing a theoretical framework grounded in emotional labor theory, gender role theory, feminist theory, and Bowen’s family systems theory, the review analyzes how caregiving responsibilities are shaped by traditional family expectations and gendered divisions of labor. Existing literature suggests that primary caregivers, particularly women, frequently experience stress, burnout, emotional exhaustion, and adverse physical health outcomes due to prolonged caregiving demands. Although caregiving can foster a strong sense of purpose, enhanced self-esteem, and social recognition, these benefits often coexist with significant psychological and physical strain. This review highlights the complex interplay between caregiving burden, gender roles, family dynamics, and caregiver well-being while identifying significant gaps in the existing literature on collectivistic caregiving, gender, and intervention-based research. To address this issue, the review emphasizes the need for greater psychological support, caregiver-focused interventions, equitable distribution of caregiving responsibilities, and greater awareness of caregivers’ mental health to promote caregiver well-being.