Author/Authors :
Moradi-Joo Mohammad نويسنده Cancer Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran , Bigdeli Imanollah نويسنده Faculty of Educational Sciences and Psychology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran Bigdeli Imanollah , Mashhadi Ali نويسنده Faculty of Education and Psychology,Department of Psychology,Ferdowsi University of Mashhad,Mashhad,Iran , Mohabbat-bahar Sahar نويسنده Department of Psychology, Faculty of Eduction and
Psychology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad,
Iran
Abstract :
Background Adjustment to cancer as a stressful event is affected
by bio-psycho-social factors. Objectives This study aimed to investigate
stigma phenomenon, the process of formation, and its impact on cancer
patients and their families. Methods This research was conducted based
on the grounded theory study. Semi-structured interview was used with 12
cancer patients (7 women and 5 men), one of the immediate family members
(spouse, parent or sibling) and 8 oncology staff members. Participants
were selected in a purposeful non-probability sampling method and data
analysis was performed in three steps: open coding, axial coding and
selective coding. Results Four conceptual categories with sub-categories
were emerged through three-step analysis of the grounded theory study:
social stigma, self-stigma, coping strategies and acceptance as a main
concept. Results showed gradual process of stigma formation to cancer
and its different dimensions. Conclusions Comprehensive assessment of
stigma through various information sources may provide a deep
understanding of this phenomenon in social context. The results of this
study may lead to development of effective therapeutic protocols for
promotion of community awareness, and improvement of mental health
levels in patients and their families by eliminating all dimensions of
this phenomenon in the context of society.
