The Experience of Non-Spousal Close Intimate Relationships for Women With Breast Cancer: A Journey of Support

An estimated 331,530 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2019 ("American Cancer Society," 2019, p. 10). The purpose of this qualitative, phenomenological, descriptive study was to explore the lived experience of non-spousal close/intimate relationships of women with breast cancer...

Full description

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Main Author Dooley, Erin Burke
Format Dissertation
LanguageEnglish
Published ProQuest Dissertations & Theses 01.01.2019
Subjects
Cancer
Health education
Nursing
Oncology
Physiological psychology
Spouses
Women
Online AccessGet full text

Cover

More Information
Summary:An estimated 331,530 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2019 ("American Cancer Society," 2019, p. 10). The purpose of this qualitative, phenomenological, descriptive study was to explore the lived experience of non-spousal close/intimate relationships of women with breast cancer. There are very few studies in the literature examining relationships between women with cancer other than those of partner or spouse. This study’s participants consisted of six women, ages 32 to 68. Analysis of these data identified themes reflected along their breast cancer trajectory (1) The journey starts (2) Mid-journey passage, and (3) Journeys end/coming home, as well as nine subthemes. Findings of this study suggest support offered by non-spousal close/intimate individuals is a dynamic provision, by diverse support systems that change over time throughout the breast cancer continuum. Assessment of support required by women with breast cancer is especially important at the beginning of the breast cancer journey but then again at various intervals, for a holistic approach and provision of functional and structural support so desperately needed by women with breast cancer.
ISBN:1392154391
9781392154397