An Interpretive Analysis of Psychological Adaptation Mechanisms in Women with Breast Cancer: A Phenomenological Study

Abstract

This study aimed to identify and analyze the psychological adaptation mechanisms in women with breast cancer using a phenomenological approach. This research employed a qualitative design with a phenomenological method. Twenty-six women with breast cancer residing in Tehran were selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected via semi-structured interviews and continued until theoretical saturation. All interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and thematically analyzed using NVivo-12 software. Three main themes emerged from the data: “Illness Acceptance,” “Coping Strategies,” and “Personal Transformation.” Each theme included several subthemes such as acceptance of the diagnosis, body image adjustment, meaning-making, emotional and cognitive coping, spiritual growth, and increased resilience. Participants perceived breast cancer not only as a crisis but also as an opportunity for psychological transformation and life reprioritization. The findings suggest that psychological adaptation to breast cancer is a dynamic and multidimensional process influenced by cultural, spiritual, cognitive, and social factors. These insights can inform the development of culturally-sensitive psychological interventions and supportive care strategies in health systems.