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Coping with cancer
G M Manuel1, S Roth, F J Keefe
1Department of Psychology, Santa Clara (Calif) University.
Journal of Human Stress
|January 1, 1987
Summary
Newly diagnosed head and neck cancer patients using approach or avoidant coping strategies reported less emotional distress. Distress decreased with these strategies, but increased in patients who did not use them.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Psychology
- Health Psychology
Background:
- Head and neck cancer presents significant physical and emotional challenges for patients.
- Understanding patient coping mechanisms is crucial for managing distress during treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the relationship between coping strategies (approach vs. avoidant) and distress in head and neck cancer patients.
- To evaluate how coping strategies influence physical and emotional distress during early cancer treatment.
Main Methods:
- 35 newly diagnosed head and neck cancer patients were assessed.
- Patients were categorized by predominant coping strategy at diagnosis.
- Distress levels were evaluated at diagnosis and two follow-up points during treatment.
Main Results:
- Patients using approach or avoidant coping had lower initial emotional distress than those who did not.
- Distress symptoms decreased in patients employing approach or avoidant strategies.
- Distress symptoms increased in patients not utilizing these coping strategies.
Conclusions:
- Approach and avoidant coping strategies are associated with better emotional regulation in head and neck cancer patients.
- Interventions supporting adaptive coping may alleviate distress in this population.
- Stress levels are highest at diagnosis and tend to decrease during treatment for head and neck cancer patients.