Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 20, 2026

Validation of a Psychosocial Intervention on Body Image in Older People: An Experimental Design
Published on: May 31, 2021
Use of letter writing as a means of integrating an altered body image: a case study
Patricia Rancour1, Kathryn Brauer
1Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, Columbus, OH, USA. rancour.1@osu.edu
Purpose/Objectives:
To describe the use of letter writing as a technique to assist patients in adjusting to an altered body image after dramatic cancer treatment.
Data Sources:
Published articles and books.
Data Synthesis:
Gestalt therapy, psychosynthesis, and journaling techniques evolve into a technique that can assist patients who are challenged to accept altered body parts.
Conclusions:
Described in a case study presentation, letter writing was found to assist female patients with recurrent breast cancer in adjusting to reconstruction of lost breasts.
Implications For Nursing:
Nurses can use letter writing as a means of assisting patients through the grief process associated with body image alterations.
Related Concept Videos
Impression Management Techniques I: Managing Appearances
Impression Management Techniques IV: Altercasting
Self-Presentation: Self-Monitoring and Self-Handicapping
The Sense of Self: Reflected Self-Appraisal and Social Comparison
Social Foundations of Self IV: Self in Digital Communication
Modeling in Therapy
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in situations...

