FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO AND ASPECTS OF POST-TRAUMATIC GROWTH ASSOCIATED WITH BREAST CANCER

Abstract

One in eight people receive a diagnosis of breast cancer, making it one of the most frequent malignancies. Post-traumatic growth (PTG), which is defined by positive changes in functioning in a variety of life dimensions, is often brought on by this traumatic event. The research that has previously been done on PTG and breast cancer is critically examined in this work. After a thorough search using reliable resources, 25–30 articles were found six of them were chosen based on predetermined standards.The results showcase that post-traumatic growth in the areas of greater appreciation for life and better relationships is common among breast cancer survivors. There are multiple factors involved in this occurrence. Though extreme sequelae may have the opposite effect on PTG, perceived emotional intensityand mild sequelae all positively influence PTG. Coping mechanisms, especially those that are adaptive, are proven essential to PTG.The PTG process is aided by social resources like contact with PTG models (cancer survivors), support from ones spouse and co-workers, and quality of marital support.In PTG, demographic considerations also come into play.There is a positive correlation between higher PTG and younger age, lower education level, and lack of college degree. However, the analysis resulted in mixed results over the association between time since diagnosis and PTG, which calls for additional qualitative study in the area. Given the limitations of self-report measures, the subjectivity of researcher interpretations, and the emphasis on a Western population, care must be taken when interpreting these results. However, our analysis provides significant insights for clinicians and researchers and underscores the potential for promoting posttraumatic growth in breast cancer patients and survivors.