Role of religion in cancer coping among African Americans: a qualitative examination.
The present study used qualitative methods to examine if and how African Americans with cancer use religiosity in coping. Patients (N = 23) were recruited from physician offices and completed 1-1(1/2) hour interviews. Themes that emerged included but were not limited to control over one's illness, emotional response, importance of social support, role of God as a healer, relying on God, importance of faith for recovery, prayer and scripture study, and making sense of the illness. Participants had a great deal to say about the role of religion in coping. These themes may have utility for development of support interventions if they can be operationalized and intervened upon.
Holt
Cheryl L
CL
Department of Public and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA. cholt14@umd.edu
Caplan
Lee
L
Schulz
Emily
E
Blake
Victor
V
Southward
Penny
P
Buckner
Ayanna
A
Lawrence
Hope
H