Understanding the Process of Transformation in the Cognition toward Work among Working Caregivers

Abstract

This study examines the transformation of cognition toward work among middle-aged workers faced with caregiving responsibilities. In order to support employees in balancing work and caregiving, it is necessary for companies to have open conversations with them regarding the support they need and the choices they make in their work arrangements. However, in order to establish this premise, it is important to understand how caregiving workers are transforming their cognition toward work. Therefore, semi-structured interviews were conducted with fulltime employees in their 40s and 50s who provide caregiving for family members or relatives aged 65 and above for 15 hours or more per week. The data were analyzed using a Modified Grounded Theory Approach (M-GTA). The burden of caregiving led to two changes in cognition toward work among workers: a sense of crisis and a reevaluation of the importance of work and career. This prompted workers to seek changes in their work arrangements, including efficiency improvements and time management strategies. The threat to continued employment caused by increased burden stimulated workers to recognize issues in their past work practices and the necessity to explore new approaches. This observation led to two kind of behaviors, such as reducing one's own workload and seeking collaboration with colleagues. The former can facilitate psychological withdrawal from work through the sensation of approaching the end of one's career. The latter can lead to finding new value and roles in work, which suppress psychological withdrawal from work.