Positive Psychological Functioning, Emotional Regulation and Coping Strategies as Predictors of Adaptation to Illness in Uruguayan Adolescents in Treatment for Cancer

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze whether there is a relationship between the variables: Positive Psychological Functioning (PPF), Emotional Regulation (ER) and Coping Strategies (CS) in relation to Adaptation to Illness (AI), and which of these variables is the best predictor of adaptation in adolescents undergoing cancer treatment. The clinical sample was of 33 adolescents aged 12-17 years (M =15.15, ST=1.67). The results indicated that emotional suppression was used more by females, while the coping strategies of religion and behavioral disengagement were used more by males. Participants from the interior of the country showed higher values in PPF than those from the city, and religious belief was more highly related with AI and ER. A linear regression study showed that, although the three independent variables predict the dependent variable, the best predictor is PPF, followed by ER and CS. The t value of the stepwise linear regression model indicated a significance of .02. These results may be useful when planning treatment in adolescents with cancer, with an approach based on psychological resources.