[Influences and psychological structures in breast cancer]

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Oncology
• Psychosomatic Medicine

Background:

• Previous research suggests distinct personality structures in cancer patients.
• Understanding these differences may aid in diagnosis and treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate and compare the personality structures of patients with malignant and benign breast tumors.
• To explore potential links between personality traits and breast tumor etiology.

Main Methods:

• Utilized interviews, questionnaires, and the Szondi Test for personality assessment.
• Compared 16 malignant breast tumor patients with 56 benign breast tumor patients.
• Divided patients into age groups (below and above 40 years).

Main Results:

• Benign tumor patients displayed neurotic-type symptoms and experiences.
• Malignant tumor patients showed psychosomatic traits, including rigid conflict negation and detachment from reality.
• Self-directed destructive tendencies were observed in cancer patients, possibly linked to a death drive rather than masochism.

Conclusions:

• Significant personality differences exist between malignant and benign breast tumor patients.
• Malignant tumor patients exhibit psychosomatic patterns, suggesting a potential role in disease development.
• Further research is needed to determine causality versus effect of breast conditions on personality.