Characteristics of oncology patients and their management strategy as a possible predictor of help in oncology social work

Abstract

The aim of this study is to point to the concept of the c-coping style of oncological patients, towards whom the attention has been shifted in the research sphere in the last few years. The preferences in coping strategies of oncological patients were identified and compared to the respondents who did not suffer from this serious disease. The result of the statistical comparison within the research group shows the differences in selected coping strategies, as well as differences in personal characteristics. The results of this study point to the fact that respondents diagnosed with oncological disease prefer, on the larger scale, selected coping strategies, which are generally considered to be more effective (Minimization, Distraction, Substitute gratification, Reaction control). At the same time, however, they possess the dimension of personal characteristics, through which the feelings of insecurity, hopelessness, and so on, can be defined. (Restlessness and Resilience dimension). Respondents diagnosed with oncological disease are also dominated by the need for social support and assistance strategy. On the other hand, respondents who have not been diagnosed with an oncological disease often show much higher intensity of the personal attribute called “Openness”.The authors respect the importance of using gender-sensitive language. For the purpose of clarity of the paper they are using the non-specific gender terms of patient or respondent, referring to both genders.