Partners and fellow patients: Two sources of emotional support for women with breast cancer

Author(s): Barker, C.

Journal/Book: Amer J Commun Psychol. 1998; 26: 233 Spring St, New York, NY 10013. Plenum Publ Corp. 439-456.

Abstract: This study examined the helping process that occurred when 26 breast cancer patients (the disclosers) talked about their illness-related concerns with their partner and, in a separate conversation, with a fellow patient (the volunteer helpers). The conversations were rated by trained observers and by the disclosers in terms of several process and outcome variables. From the observers' perspective, the volunteer helpers were move helpful, empathic and supportive, less critical, and used more self-disclosure than the partners. Disclosers did nor differentiate between the two types of helper and gave generally high ratings to both conversations. Strengths and weaknesses of each type of helper were identified Findings are discussed in relation to the literature on formal and informal helping, and implications for training nonprofessional helpers are suggested.

Note: Article Pistrang N, Univ London Univ Coll, Subdept Clin Hlth Psychol, Gower St, London WC1E 6BT, ENGLAND

Keyword(s): informal helping; nonprofessional helpers; breast cancer; emotional support; couples communication; SOCIAL SUPPORT; HELP; PSYCHOTHERAPY; INTERVENTION; ADJUSTMENT; MARRIAGE

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