The Emotional Journey of Women Experiencing a Breast Abnormality

Bibliographic Data

ID4696385
AuthorsAdrian J Blow (0000-0001-9853-661X, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA, corresponding author), Paul Swiecicki (0000-0003-2286-3555, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA), Pam Haan (Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA), Janet R Osuch (0000-0002-1456-0952, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA), Laura L Symonds (Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA), Stephanie S Smith (0000-0001-9943-6717, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA), Kyle Walsh (0000-0002-1178-6286, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA), Michael J Boivin (0000-0002-0097-1777, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA)
Year2011
Volume21
Issue10
Pages1316-1334
Publication date2011-10-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueQualitative Health Research (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1049-7323 • E-ISSN: 1552-7557
PublisherSAGE Publications Inc (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1177/1049732311405798
PMID21511978
OpenAlexW2155302040
LanguageEN
Citations received10
References cited33

Using grounded theory, a multidisciplinary study team compared the narratives of 30 women who had recently experienced a breast cancer scare. Even though 10 women received a benign diagnosis, all women reported a difficult time prediagnosis, characterized by an array of emotions and contemplation of the meaning of life. Diagnosis separated the two groups with emotional relief dominant for the benign group and intensification of emotions for the cancer group. For those diagnosed with cancer, three factors contributed to arriving at a point of acceptance about the diagnosis and treatment: (a) sustained coping mechanisms; (b) a belief system that shifted the meaning of the cancer experience; and (c) the ability to manage non-cancer-related stressful events. Implications include the need for tailored biopsychosocial treatments that focus on reducing stress, enhancing support systems, reframing beliefs about the illness, and providing the opportunity for the women to talk about their experiences

Biopsychosocial model · Breast cancer · Cancer · Cognitive reframing · Focus group · Grounded theory · Multidisciplinary approach · Narrative · Psychotherapist · Qualitative research · Cancer survivorship and care · Clinical Psychology · Family Support in Illness · Medicine · Palliative Care and End-of-Life Issues · Psychology