Personality Subtypes and Attachment Styles in Women Survivors of Breast and Gynecologic Cancer

Introduction: Gynecologic and breast cancers are among the types of cancer that are still highly prevalent with high rates of mortality due to lack of early diagnosis. However, these two types of cancer can be controlled by screening programs and the individual can be survived. Also, both cancers have gained the attention of mental health specialists because of impairing sexual function and issues related to body image, and fertility status among affected individuals in which, have direct effects on their adjustment and quality of life. Consequently, the aim of the current research is identify of personality subtypes and attachment styles in women who have survived from breast and gynecologic cancers. Methods: The current study is a qualitative. The participants were selected through purposive sampling method, which continued until data saturation from January to March 2018. For the data collection, the Shedler-Western Assessment Procedure (SWAP) and the Adult Attachment Interview (AAI), and for the data analysis Q-Sort scaling and comparative content analysis were used. Results: The study’s findings showed that high-functioning depressive traits and dissociation were high. However, 9 of the participants had psychological health. Also, secure attachment and preoccupied attachment patterns were the most frequent ones. Conclusion: These findings can provide clinical implications for mental variables that are involved in the remission process or the advancement of the disease in women with breast and gynecologic cancer.