Family caring practices were identified through the interpretation of parents' narratives about the experience of caring for a schizophrenic son or daughter. Parents were interviewed three times regarding stressful episodes and their attempts to cope. Half of the families were observed in the home for 25 hours each over a 3-month period. Transcripts of interviews and observational notes were interpreted using hermeneutic methods. Four distinct forms of caring practices were identified: (a) support of the schizophrenic's well-being despite shifting symptoms, (b) balancing the ill member's needs against the caregiver's needs, (c) adoption of scientifically prescribed care principles, and (d) delegation of direct care to another family member, thereby remaining personally uninvolved.
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