Potentially Harmful Behaviors in Dementia Informal Caregivers: Family Interaction Pattern as the Missing Link

Key Points Potentially harmful behaviors (PHB) by dementia caregivers may stem from preexisting family conflict patterns, through processes such as behavior contagion, emotional displacement, and aggravation of caregiving stress. Over time, these behaviors may be normalized and instinctively used under caregiving strain. Addressing the family environment in interventions, such as by promoting constructive communication and conflict resolution, may be crucial to break the transmission of harmful interactions and reduce PHB.