Implementation of a behavioral coping programme for cancer patients

Abstract

Cancer patients display a wide variety of behaviours due to the sudden and unexpected nature of their condition. Among them, the inability to handle most situations generated by their disease is a relevant example. Within Health Psycho- logy, these situations are named lifestyle changes. This study applied coping programmes in order to improve or mantain cancer patients quality of life.

There is empirical evidence that points to the possibility of treating coping and/ or problem solving deficits with specific programmes. The programme employs a structured approach based on problem solving strategies and coping skills in order to help cancer patients. Coping emphasizes initially the confrontation or clarifying of the problem, followed by the presentation of alternative behaviours. Patients learn to recognize, confront and solve the disease related problems that he/she will find. We worked with six non metastatic, non hospitalized stomach cancer patients over 12 sessions (once a week, one hour each).