Couples' experiences of breast cancer over time: a meta-ethnography and interpretative phenomenological analysis

Adams, Eike Ulrike (2015). Couples' experiences of breast cancer over time: a meta-ethnography and interpretative phenomenological analysis. University of Birmingham. Clin.Psy.D.

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Abstract

Introduction
This thesis comprises two chapters. Chapter I is a meta-ethnography of 14 qualitative papers on couples’ experiences of breast cancer published between 1955 and 2014. It provides a critical review and model of adaptation processes that couples engage in to make sense of the experience of being diagnosed with breast cancer. It outlines how constructions of ‘cancer’ and ‘the couple’ are linked to these processes.
Chapter II is a longitudinal qualitative study addressing two gaps identified in Chapter I: experiences 1) of younger couples and 2) over time. Four couples participated in two separate interviews, approximately six months apart. 16 interviews were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Results focused on change over time in three dimensions with a bearing on couples’ adaptation: 1) changes in external circumstances as couples moved along the cancer trajectory; 2) changes in the meaning given to ‘cancer’; and 3) changes in the way the couples related to each other.

Conclusions
Adaptation to cancer is a relational process that changes over time. Partners need to be more integrated into clinical care. Metaphors and meaning-making are linked to couples’ adaptation and could be explored further to develop tailored interventions.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Clin.Psy.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Clin.Psy.D.

Supervisor(s):