| Abstract [eng] |
Having breast cancer is a complex experience that can bring both negative and positive psychological effects. To better understand what determines if the illness is more psychologically growth-promoting or harmful, this study aimed to examine how depression, post-traumatic growth, and mindfulness manifest in the context of this illness and how these constructs are related. The study included 86 women diagnosed with breast cancer, aged between 24 and 72. Participants were recruited from social media groups focused on individuals with oncological illness. The instruments used in the study were: the expanded Post-Traumatic Growth Inventory, the Patient Health Questionnaire-9, the Mindful Attention Awareness Scale, and a sociodemographic and illness-related variables questionnaire. The results showed that depression and mindfulness are not linked with post-traumatic growth and do not predict it. Additionally, it was found that depression is negatively linked to mindfulness. Higher levels of depression were observed in groups with lower education, poorer financial status, and greater activity limitations. It was also found that mindfulness is higher in those with a better financial status, and that it is greater in the stage IV cancer group than in the stage I group. The findings suggest that it is worthwhile exploring alternative mechanisms to better understand the manifestation of post-traumatic growth. |
