Data Analysis
For each strategy item, the proportion of use and the mean helpfulness were computed. Correlation of proportion of use and mean helpfulness was determined. The relationship of use and helpfulness was categorized as being in the highest and lowest quartile on each dimension, creating four distinct categories: low use and helpfulness, low use and high helpfulness, high use and low helpfulness, or high use and helpfulness (Table 2).
Table 2. Strategies in Use and Helpfulness Quartiles.
Low use, high helpfulness
1. I talk to the HD Center staff
2. I gather information about the concerns I have about my family member with HD from support groups
3. I gather information about the concerns I have about my family member with HD from conferences
4.I limit his/her harmful use of alcohol, drugs, and/or caffeine
5. I bring him/her home from the nursing home/assisted living facility for visits
Low use, low helpfulness
1. I talk to a counselor or therapist
2. I gather information about the concerns I have about my family member with HD from friends
3. I gather information about the concerns I have about my family member with HD from media
4. I gather information about the concerns I have about my family member with HD from social services
5. I help him/her with getting dressed/undressed
6. I use prescription medication to cope
7. I use over-the-counter medication to cope
8. I use tobacco to cope
9. I use alcohol to cope
10. I tell others his/her behaviors are for a different reason than HD
High use, high helpfulness
1. I gather information about the concerns I have about my family member with HD from doing reports or research
2. I make an effort to spend quality time with him/her
3. I keep busy with activities outside school and/or work
4. I talk with him/her while he/she is still able to communicate
5. I enjoy my relationship with him/her
6. I do things I find fun or relaxing
7. I spend time with my friends
Higher use, low helpfulness
1. I hold in my emotions