Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 13, 2026

Flame Experiments at the Advanced Light Source: New Insights into Soot Formation Processes
Published on: May 26, 2014
Identity and home: Understanding the experience of people with advanced cancer
Jesper Larsen Maersk1, Malcolm P Cutchin2, Karen la Cour3
1University of Southern Denmark, Research Unit of General Practice, Research Initiative for Activity Studies and Occupational Therapy, JB Winsloews vej 9, 5000 Odense C, Denmark; University College Absalon, Department of Occupational Therapy, Parkvej 190, 4700 Naestved, Denmark; The Social and Health Academy, Vestensborg Alle 78, 4800 Nykoebing Falster, Denmark.
Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to explore how the identity of people with advanced cancer is influenced by their experiences of living at home. A total of 28 in-depth interviews were conducted with 22 people with advanced cancer and four spouses. Grounded theory guided the collection and analysis of data. Home tours and associated field notes augmented the interview data. The analysis revealed that support of participants' identity was reflected in their abilities to live and occupy the home during daily activities, and in the ways the home and objects functioned as referents to themselves and their past. Threats to their identity ensued as the home environment became unmanageable during daily activities and as homecare professionals and assistive devices entered the home. By supporting people with advanced cancer in maintaining daily activities in the home and reducing changes in the home caused by homecare it is possible to reduce loss of identity.
Related Concept Videos
Trigonometric Identities II
Personal Identity
Understanding the Self
Social Identity
Trigonometric Identities I
Understanding Self-Concept

