Experiences of South Asian Women with Breast Cancer: Coping via 'Strength through Connection'

Prof Doc Thesis


Sagoo, Parminder 2010. Experiences of South Asian Women with Breast Cancer: Coping via 'Strength through Connection'. Prof Doc Thesis University of East London School of Psychology
AuthorsSagoo, Parminder
TypeProf Doc Thesis
Abstract

The aim of this qualitative study was to gain a better understanding of how British South Asian women cope with breast cancer. The NICE (2004) Guidance suggests
that appropriate psychological support should be available for all patients through all stages of their treatment from diagnosis to end-of-life. A literature review indicated a
paucity of UK based studies on which to base practice. In order to understand the coping experience of this group, ten female South Asian patients being treated for
breast cancer were recruited for in-depth semi-structured interviews, which were recorded and transcribed. Data were analysed using constructivist grounded theory to
produce a model conceptualising the resources or processes that this group used in order to cope with breast cancer. Analysis elucidated 'Strength through Connection'
as the core category, and four main categories: a) Being in mind, b) Wearing a positive cap, c) Preserving relational identity, and d) Realigning values. Facets of the
extant coping literature support these findings but much of this research is not from an ethno-cultural perspective. The pattern of coping found in this study can be viewed
holistically within a cultural framework and interpreted as predominantly collectivist coping, thereby highlighting the significance of connectedness. Clinicians are encouraged to be better informed regarding cultural differences and preferences in coping, and recommendations are made for counselling psychology practice. The need for further research to meet the NICE (2004) Guidance is highlighted.

KeywordsSouth Asian women; breast cancer; coping
Year2010
Publication dates
PrintMay 2010
Publication process dates
Deposited09 Apr 2013
Additional information

This thesis supplied via ROAR to UEL-registered users is protected by copyright and other intellectual property rights, and duplication of any part of the material is not permitted, except for your personal use for the purposes of non-commercial research and private study in electronic or print form. You must obtain permission from the copyright-holder for any other use. Electronic or print copies may not be offered, for sale or otherwise, to anyone. No quotation from the thesis may be published without proper acknowledgement.

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