Clarification of the conceptualization and measurement of denial in psychosocial oncology research

Author(s): Levine, E. G.

Journal/Book: Ann Behavioral Med. 1998; 20: 7611 Elmwood Ave, Ste 201, Middleton, WI 53562-3161, USA. Soc Behavioral Medicine. 149-160.

Abstract: Denial represents an important area of study in individuals with cancer It may be related to recognizing symptoms, seeking medical help, psychological adjustment to diagnosis and illness, and perhaps progression of the disease. However denial has been defined theoretically and measured in a variety of ways. These differences are doe To a lack of consensus as to whether denial is unconscious versus conscious, a trait versus a state, an indication of psychological disturbance versus a normal response to a life-threatening disease, or a broad versus a narrow concept. In addition, there is a lack of congruence between theoretical definitions and the operational definitions used in empirical studies investigating denial in the context of cancer: This inconsistency may be responsible for the mired findings concerning the importance and function of denial in individuals with cancel: In this article, the ways in which denial has been conceptualized and operationalized are examined and an overview of the research examining denial in cancer patients is provided. We recommend that future studies provide explicit definitions of denial, use multiple measures assessing different modalities and outcomes, measure denial at several times otter the course of illness, and take into account aspects of the individual's situation to ensure that denial is riot identified erroneously.

Note: Review Levine EG, Calif Pacific Med Ctr, Geraldine Brush Canc Res Inst, 2300 Calif St, Suite 204, San Francisco,CA 94115 USA

Keyword(s): BREAST-CANCER PATIENTS; COPING STRATEGIES; PSYCHOLOGICAL RESPONSE; PSYCHOMETRIC PROPERTIES; EMOTIONAL EXPRESSION; MALIGNANT-MELANOMA; MENTAL ADJUSTMENT; EGO DEFENSES; MAC SCALE; WOMEN

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