Predictors of Strain in Families of Cancer Patients

Abstract

This review of Ule research litcrature on family adjustmenl to canccr idcntifics thc factors that consistently predict the extent of psychosocial problems experienced by family members. A conceptual model was applied that viewed the degree of family strain as being determined by two sets of variables: the objective factors of the illness itself and family context variables. With regard to objective factors, Ule degree of family strain is affected primarily by the severity of the illness as well as by the suddenness of its onset and the patient's own level of distress. In addition, such contextual variables as thc age, gender, and health of family members. Their other life stressors and previous psychological problems, family stage and relational bonds, and social supports of family members also conlribute to the psychosocial impact of illness on the family.