Coping et changement face au cancer du sein : le point de vue des patientes et de leurs accompagnants

Abstract

This longitudinal study investigated the processes of coping and change for 60 women with breast cancer and their close relations ( N = 60). Our study is based on interview's analysis and on the answers to a scale of coping (Ways of Coping Checklist). Results reveal higher rates of seeking social support strategy for patients at the time of the surgical operation (T1) and after the treatments (T2) compared to their close relations (“t Student” tests, p < 0,01). The longitudinal analysis shows an increase of problem solving strategy at T2 only for patients ( p < 0,02). The nature of the change perceptions differs according to the status (patient/close relations), and seems to be a constituent of the coping with the serious illness.