Social support, intrusive thoughts, and quality of life in breast cancer survivors

J Behav Med. 2001 Jun;24(3):231-45. doi: 10.1023/a:1010714722844.

Abstract

This study explores the moderating effect of social support on the relationship between cancer-related intrusive thoughts and quality of life. Sixty-four breast cancer survivors completed self-report measures of appraisal social support (the disclosure of thoughts and feelings to significant others), cancer-related intrusive thoughts, and quality of life. Controlling for demographic and treatment variables, the negative impact of cancer-related intrusive thoughts on both physical and mental quality of life measures was moderated by appraisal social support. For women with high levels of appraisal support, cancer-related intrusive thoughts had no significant relationship with quality of life. However, for women with low levels of appraisal support, the relationship between cancer-related intrusive thoughts and quality of life was significant and negative. These results suggest that appraisal social support can mitigate the impact of traumatic life events.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Affect*
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Breast Neoplasms / mortality*
  • Humans
  • Interpersonal Relations
  • Life Change Events
  • Middle Aged
  • Quality of Life*
  • Social Support*
  • Survival Rate
  • Thinking*