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“After the horrible cancer…” Post-traumatic growth through the lens of head and neck cancer survivors

Lookup NU author(s): Dr Fiona MengerORCiD, Jennifer DeaneORCiD, James O'HaraORCiD, Professor Linda Sharp

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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0).

Abstract

Background This qualitative study aimed to enhance understanding of psychosocial outcomes following head and neck cancer (HNC) by exploring survivors’ experiences of post-traumatic growth (PTG). Methods We interviewed twenty HNC survivors (nine months to five years post-diagnosis) about their cancer diagnosis and treatment, including any perceived positive changes. Based on an existing model of PTG outcomes, we used a directed content analysis to identify descriptions of PTG. We then adopted open coding to explore these experiences and to construct themes. We also examined the responses of those who felt they had not experienced positive changes. Results All interviews bar one yielded evidence that participants experienced two or more PTG outcomes. Further analysis led to the creation of four themes reflecting their PTG experiences: gratitude and compassion, re-evaluation, clarity and purpose, and mindfulness and awareness. These themes shared a focus on how HNC had led to changes in participants’ sense of self, their value and perception of others, and their life roles and priorities. Conclusions PTG outcomes following HNC represent a range of positive experiences. Participants’ sense of self and life role plus the role of others cut across descriptions of positive psychological change. HNC survivors who experience PTG commonly describe ability to reflect, re-evaluate, and move on from the HNC experience. These findings can support the design of psychosocial interventions by highlighting experiences in common among those who develop PTG, and, hence, suggesting those who may benefit from targeted support.

Publication metadata

Author(s): Menger F, Deane J, Patterson JM, Fisher P, O'Hara J, Sharp L

Publication type: Article

Publication status: Published

Journal: Journal of Psychosocial Oncology Research and Practice

Year: 2025

Volume: 7

Issue: 1

Print publication date: 01/03/2025

Acceptance date: 29/11/2024

Date deposited: 22/04/2025

ISSN (electronic): 2637-5974

Publisher: Wolters Kluwer

URL: https://doi.org/10.1097/OR9.0000000000000158

DOI: 10.1097/OR9.0000000000000158

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