Reema’s Article Presentation

Lab member, Reema, recently presented an article titled “Experiencing Positive Change After a Diagnosis of Breast Cancer: A Grounded Theory Analysis” by Olga Horgan, Chris Holcombe, and Peter Salmon. Presenting an article gives lab members the opportunity to improve their research skills while simultaneously exploring their own interests. The purpose of this study was to document and explain positive psychological changes following a diagnosis of breast cancer using a grounded theory approach. The results demonstrated that the participants experienced positive changes as a result of their cancer. Analysis of the participants’ reflections suggested that changed priorities in life and increased empathy for others occurred when reflections focused on the suffering endured through this illness. Additionally, increased self-confidence was found when patients reflected on the management of their illness. These findings are consistent with other trauma-processing theories, while also contributing ideas of reflection in the suffering and management of trauma. Future directions include the design of clinical interventions to assist adjustment to breast cancer diagnosis.