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Comparison of lesbian and heterosexual women's response to newly diagnosed breast cancer
Author(s) -
Fobair Patricia,
O'Hanlan Katherine,
Koopman Cheryl,
Classen Catherine,
Dimiceli Sue,
Drooker Nancy,
Warner Diane,
Davids Heather Rachel,
Loulan Joann,
Wallsten Darah,
Goffinet Don,
Morrow Gary,
Spiegel David
Publication year - 2001
Publication title -
psycho‐oncology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.41
H-Index - 137
eISSN - 1099-1611
pISSN - 1057-9249
DOI - 10.1002/1099-1611(200101/02)10:1<40::aid-pon480>3.0.co;2-s
Subject(s) - lesbian , sexual orientation , breast cancer , mood , group cohesiveness , psychology , clinical psychology , heterosexuality , coping (psychology) , negative mood , medicine , homosexuality , social psychology , cancer , psychoanalysis
In a study comparing lesbian and heterosexual women's response to newly diagnosed breast cancer, we compared data from 29 lesbians with 246 heterosexual women with breast cancer. Our hypotheses were that lesbian breast cancer patients would report higher scores of mood disturbance; suffer fewer problems with body image and sexual activity; show more expressiveness and cohesiveness and less conflict with their partners; would find social support from their partners and friends; and would have a poorer perception of the medical care system than heterosexual women. Our predictions regarding sexual orientation differences were supported for results regarding body image, social support, and medical care. There were no differences in mood, sexual activity or relational issues. Not predicted were differneces in coping, indicating areas of emotional strength and vulnerability among the lesbian sample. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Copyright © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.