title: 'I-We' boundary fluctuations in couple adjustment to rectal cancer and life with a permanent colostomy.
abstract: This study investigates couples' adjustment to rectal cancer and a colostomy using the 'Classification System of Couple Adjustment to Cancer', a framework delineating fluctuations in couples' sense of 'I' and 'We' in response to cancer. Nine couples affected by rectal cancer and adjusting to life with a colostomy were interviewed. A theoretical thematic analysis of the transcripts was conducted; nearly all 'I-We' shifts of the Classification System of Couple Adjustment to Cancer were observed - often in unique ways in response to rectal cancer-specific challenges - and one new shift was described. The results provide a novel and experientially grounded means of conceptualizing complex dyadic coping processes.
authors.affiliation: Department of Psychology, York University, Canada.
authors.forename: Molly
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: McCarthy
authors.affiliation: Department of Psychology, York University, Canada; Odette Cancer Centre, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Canada.
authors.forename: Karen
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Fergus
authors.affiliation: Odette Cancer Centre, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Canada.
authors.forename: Debbie
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Miller
keywords: cancer; coping; family; health psychology; qualitative methods; quality of life