Experiences of men who commit to romantic relationships with younger breast cancer survivors: A qualitative study.
This phenomenological study examined the experiences of men who committed to romantic relationships with women under 50, post-breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. Twelve men from throughout the United States, who were dating their partner for at least 6 months, participated in semistructured interviews. Findings focused on initial disclosure timing, previous experience/knowledge about the cancer, reacting with acceptance despite concerns, focusing on love/connection, respecting and admiring the survivor, and the ongoing impact of cancer on the relationship. Clinical implications are discussed, highlighting the systemic effect that breast cancer may have on a couple even after treatment is completed.
a Department of Marriage and Family Therapy , Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University , Falls Church , VA , USA.|b Department of Social Psychology , University of Maryland , College Park , MD , USA.
Rachel A
RA
Freidus
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000523:psychology* / Q000628:therapy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D008149:Love; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D036301:Qualitative Research; D017741:Survivors / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D014481:United States; D055815:Young Adult
breast cancer; dating after breast cancer; men dating breast cancer survivors; romantic relationships after breast cancer; transcendental phenomenology