Correlation between religious coping and depression in cancer patients

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Psychiatry
• Psychology

Background:

• Cancer significantly increases morbidity and mortality.
• Depression is a common and serious consequence of cancer.
• Religious coping can mitigate distress in cancer patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the link between religious coping and depression in cancer patients.
• To explore how religious coping strategies influence psychological well-being.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive-correlational study involving 150 cancer patients.
• Utilized Pargament's religious coping questionnaire and Beck depression inventory.
• Data analyzed using multiple regression and correlation.

Main Results:

• A relationship with God was more pronounced in women.
• Avoidant coping strategies correlated with higher depression rates.
• Religious coping, specifically a relationship with God, reduced depression.

Conclusions:

• Psychotherapy and counseling are beneficial for cancer patients.
• Enhancing religious beliefs and knowledge improves disease acceptance and coping.
• Family support and positive religious attitudes aid in managing psychological distress.