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Psychosocial aspects of mastectomy: II. the man's perspective
Abstract:
In order to assess factors related to men's adjustment to mastectomy and its aftermath the authors administered a questionnaire to 31 men whose wives or partners had had mastectomies. Most men reported a good overall adjustment, but a subgroup remained distressed and reported adverse effects on their relationships with wives or lovers. The data indicate that the nodal points in the process are the involvement of partners in the decision-making process, the frequency of hospital visits, resumption of the sexual relationship, and the man looking at his partner's body after surgery. These findings have implications for counseling couples who face this emotionally stressful procedure.
Insights
Men
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Oncology
- Sociology
Background:
- Mastectomy significantly impacts partners of patients.
- Understanding male adjustment is crucial for holistic care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify factors influencing men's adjustment to their partner's mastectomy.
- To explore the emotional and relational aftermath for male partners.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire was administered to 31 men whose partners underwent mastectomy.
- Data collected focused on adjustment, relationship dynamics, and specific post-surgery experiences.
Main Results:
- Most men reported good adjustment, but a subset experienced distress.
- Key factors influencing adjustment included partner involvement in decisions, hospital visit frequency, sexual relationship resumption, and partner's body exposure post-surgery.
- Adverse effects on relationships were reported by a distressed subgroup.
Conclusions:
- Male adjustment to partner's mastectomy is multifactorial.
- Specific interventions addressing decision-making, support, and intimacy are recommended for couples.
- Counseling should consider these nodal points for effective support.