Coping

: en individuell hantering av bröstcancer

Abstract

Background:Breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting women in Sweden, where around 7000 are diagnosed each year. Making such a diagnosis can be very shocking. In order to handle the situation, there are a number of different stages the individual must go through, this is done by using various coping strategies. Aim: The aim of this study was to explore women’s different coping strategies in breast cancer. Method: A literature review was conducted in which 14 empirical studies were used. Results: Results of the studies showed that there were many ways to manage their breast cancer, some women chose to accept and others deny. Humor and religion substantiate some women and social support was the most important tool. In order to establish control in their lives women chose to actively participate in their illness and become active in every possible way. Many women wanted to fight and tried to stay positive. Discussion: Based on the result’s findings were discussed any differences and similarities to some different theorists. Including Antonovsky, Folkman and Lazarus, and even Carver. This was done to better understand and see a connection between behaviour and the individual. Conclusion: The conclusion was that all women have their own way to handle the disease and that this must be considered. Caregivers must have a strong understanding of this and may apply different instruments to assess their patient’s existing position in the stressful situation.