Closer to death, closer to life : living in the aftermath of breast cancer

Abstract

This exploratory research study attempts to explain the behaviours engaged in by breast cancer survivors using two models proposed in psychological literature, namely Terror Management Theory and Meaning-Management Model. Psychological research on cancer, both local and foreign, has focused mostly on interpersonal processes throughout the cancer experience. This study explores the intrapersonal world of the breast cancer survivor - a topic which has not generally been discussed extensively in contemporary literature. Five women, in the remission stage of their cancer experience, were interviewed in semi-structured sessions. Data was analysed thematically. Terror Management Theory and Meaning Management Model provided a framework from which explanations of the emergent themes were formulated. The main findings suggest that integrating the main tenets of the two proposed models would provide a best-fit model which encompasses a holistic explanation for the behaviour taken up by the participants in this study, and the meanings emerging out of their breast cancer survival situation.