This qualitative study, guided by the System Model Theory was performed with the objective to identify the perceptions that relatives taking care of technology-dependent children and adolescents have regarding the stressors that affect their relationships, as a result from the care they provide to their children. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, and then subjected to thematic categorical analysis. Nine women of different families participated. Three categories emerged: "I live for him/her now"; "Stressful situations happen all the time"; The man x woman relationship changed. Women identified the occurrence of multidimensional, everyday changes in their family life and, particularly, in their personal life, as they practically took over the whole care alone, abandoned their job, leisure, and "being a woman". It is concluded that in order to guarantee the accomplishments made possible by technological advancement, families warrant support, particularly for the women, through policies that permit them to take care of their child and also achieve personal fulfillment in other dimensions.
Family relations; Stress psychological; Hospice care
