An exploration of the post-treatment psychosocial experiences of female adult cancer patients
Date
2009-05-28T10:07:52Z
Authors
Kraut, Lisa
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Abstract
ABSTRACT
This study explores the post-treatment psychosocial experiences of female adult cancer
patients. In particular, this study aims at identifying common themes in the nature of
their experiences. This research was exploratory in nature and took place within the
context of the qualitative paradigm. The focus group method was utilised in collecting
data. The six participants were white Christian females between the ages of 50 and 62
who had completed treatment (either chemotherapy, radiation or both) not more than four
months prior to the study. Data were analysed by means of categorical content analysis.
Four out of the six participants reported relief as well as mixed emotions after
discovering they had survived cancer. A major finding of this research was that all of the
participants were experiencing anxiety that the cancer might recur. Five out of the six
participants reported ample support from their partners and other family members. The
entire group of participants admitted that their genuine friends remained supportive
throughout treatment, while some friends avoided them when they had cancer, but were
willing to continue the friendship after treatment. This impacted negatively on their
friendship. The entire group mentioned negative social experiences due to the stigma
attached to having cancer. It was also found that the participants preferred spending time
with people who have insight into the meaning of life. All of the participants agreed that
without their relationship with God and the social support structure including churches
and acquaintances at church, they would not be able to get through their experiences
during and after treatment. The entire group mentioned the experience of a greater
appreciation for life after having completed treatment and survived cancer.
It is evident that the experiences of cancer survivors in the South African context
necessitate further research and that an understanding of these experiences plays a crucial
role in the development of successful interventions for survivors, their families and the
wider social community in regard to cancer.
Description
Keywords
cancer, post-treatment, psychosocial experiences, female patients