[Adjustment, stress and coping with stress in breast cancer. Results of single case studies]

Twelve newly diagnosed breast cancer patients were studied by means of a standardized diary during the first ninety days after diagnosis and surgery in order to obtain a very detailed multivariate description of individual mood states and coping responses in the course of time. The main function of this approach is to identify and evaluate different modes of coping and to propose intervention strategies in consideration of specific conditions of the individual.