title: Examining patterns of association with defensive information processing about colorectal cancer screening.
abstract: To reduce negative psychological affect from information or behavior that is inconsistent with one's positive self-concept, individuals use a variety of defensive strategies. It is unknown whether correlates differ across defenses. We examined correlates of four levels of defensive information processing about colorectal cancer screening. Cross-sectional surveys were completed by a convenience sample of 287 adults aged 50-75 years. Defenses measures were more consistently associated with individual differences (especially avoidant coping styles); however, situational variables involving health-care providers also were important. Future research should examine changes in defenses after risk communication and their relative impact on colorectal cancer screening.
authors.affiliation: Washington University, School of Medicine, USA amcqueen@dom.wustl.edu.
authors.forename: Amy
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: McQueen
authors.affiliation: University of Texas, School of Public Health, USA.
authors.forename: Paul R
authors.initials: PR
authors.lastname: Swank
authors.affiliation: University of Texas, School of Public Health, USA.
authors.forename: Sally W
authors.initials: SW
authors.lastname: Vernon
mesh_terms: D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000368:Aged; D015179:Colorectal Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000523:psychology; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D003674:Defense Mechanisms; D055088:Early Detection of Cancer / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012307:Risk Factors
keywords: attitude; colorectal cancer neoplasms; coping behavior; defense mechanisms; mass screening