Exploring the Link Between Metacognitive Skills with Psychological Resilience and Post-Traumatic Growth in Cancer...

Trauma can lead to mental illness, but it can also result in positive outcomes known as post-traumatic growth (PTG). Many cancer survivors who experience trauma report experiencing PTG, which is connected to psychological resilience-the ability to adapt and cope with stress. Metacognitive skills, cognitions about cognitions, are critical for managing life challenges. Previous studies assessing metacognition in cancer patients have primarily utilized self-report scales to evaluate metacognitive cognitions. In contrast, the present study is the first to assess metacognitive skills in cancer patients using a semi-structured, interview-based approach with interviewer-administered scoring Metacognition Assessment Scale-Abbreviated (MAS-A). This study investigated the relationship between metacognitive skills with psychological resilience and PTG in cancer survivors. The study included 45 cancer patients in remission. Participants completed assessments: the MAS-A for metacognitive skills, the Post-traumatic Growth Inventory (PTGI) for PTG, the Resilience Scale for Adults (RSA) for resilience, World Health Organization Quality of Life Scale-Brief for life quality. MAS-A is interviewer-rated, while the remaining scales are self-reports. There was no significant relationship between the MAS-A and PTGI scores (p > .05). However, positive correlations were found between the MAS-A and RSA scores (r_s = .297 to .454; p = .048-.002). Additionally, higher PTGI- Changes in Philosophy of Life scores were found in those receiving chemotherapy and radiotherapy (p = .008 and .001, respectively). While metacognitive skills do not directly impact PTG, they are related to psychological resilience, a key predictor of PTG. This highlights the importance of further research on metacognitive interventions and their effectiveness in cancer patients.