While there is no question that families respond to the needs of older relatives, there is wide variation in the behavior and experience of caregiving relatives. Two factors that may account for some of this variation are the bonds of affection and reciprocity, both of which have developed over the previous relationship between the older relative and the caregiver. In-depth interviews were conducted with 203 individuals identified as the primary caregiver to an older relative. Respondents reported relatively warm, affective feelings toward older relatives and saw the relative as a provider of assistance to them in the past. The dependency of the aged relative appeared to modify the nature of the affective relationship, bringing the dyad closer emotionally but making daily interaction less enjoyable for the caregiver. The most frequently mentioned motivation for caregiving was familial obligation, followed by affection and reciprocity. Examination of the influence of affection and reciprocity on the degree of caregiving involvement and consequences revealed a moderate, significant positive relationship between reciprocity and caregiving involvement. Affection had moderate significant relationships with both caregiving involvement and caregiving impact. The findings suggest that caregiving takes place within an historical context. (NRB)