THE NEXUS BETWEEN SOCIAL SUPPORT, COPING AND PSYCHOLOGICAL WELL-BEING OF BREAST CANCER PATIENTS IN PUNJAB, PAKISTAN

Abstract

Breast cancer has physical and psychological effects on both patients and their families. The cancer is a life-threatening disease and breast cancer is most prevalent form of it. Despite significant advancements in the medical technology that have improved the treatment outcomes, the psychological consequences still remain ignored. This study aims to explore role of social and cultural factors that affect coping mechanisms employed by cancer survivors & their social support systems. This study employed quantitative research design and collected data from 325 breast cancer patients over purposive and convenient sampling techniques. The results revealed that socio-economic factors, including the age, income, and family size, have a significant impact on psychological well-being of patients. The results also narrated that older age & patients from higher family income have better emotional stability. The findings showed that strong and efficient systems of support influenced the coping with the challenges associated with the disease. Likewise, the study also provides new insights into this important relationship and advocates for comprehensive approach that incorporates the socio-cultural understanding to address the psychological well-being of the survivors.