Types and sources of social support among cancer patients : are there differences with respect to gender.

• The uncertainties and fears experienced by an individual diagnosed with cancer are likely to result in an enhanced need for social support. Social support is beneficial to cancer patients in adjusting to the stress of the disease, but those who have cancer may be especially likely to experience difficulties in obtaining adequate support. Types and sources of social support available to people afflicted with cancer related to reproductive organs and breast were assessed in this study, focusing on gender differences wit respect to social support. Two hundred and eighteen respondents completed the Norbeck Social Support Questionnaire. Significant differences were found with respect to gender and being married, age, having grandchildren and being employed. Statistically significant differences were also found with respect to emotional support and frequency of contact with network members. Female scored higher emotional support, as well as higher total function support than males, even though the females were more likely to be single, divorced or widowed. This contests the statements about the marital relationship as the most powerful life support source and the significant factor for cancer survival. It seems that there might be other affecting factors that make the cancer patient perceive and experience social support, perhaps a gender factor. Health care providers must take into consideration that there are differences in how human beings act and perceive things with respect to gender.

Ämnesord

MEDICIN OCH HÄLSOVETENSKAP  -- Hälsovetenskap -- Omvårdnad (hsv//swe)

MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES  -- Health Sciences -- Nursing (hsv//eng)

Nyckelord

cancer patients

gender

social support

sources of social support.

Nursing

Omvårdnad

Publikations- och innehållstyp

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art (ämneskategori)