ABSTRACT
This chapter summarizes the findings of the research project by retracing the changes reported by caregivers, reviews the salient program features essential to the changes and analyzes barriers to empowerment encountered in this setting. It examines the theoretical constructs undergirding the investigation, also analyzes the role of the researcher, presents limitations, and explores ways in which findings can be generalized to other settings. Clearly, maturation can be a potent force in adult development; and maturation may unite with history to produce unanticipated, powerful results. A number of personal characteristics seemed to be linked to empowerment. First, caregivers demonstrated self-awareness and a willingness to engage in personal reflection, or praxis. Second, they were willing to embrace change. Participation in the family support program fostered empowerment and helped caregivers resume the process of adult development. A number of programmatic elements were essential to the empowerment process.
