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The impact of prostate cancer on partners: a qualitative exploration
Author(s) -
Wootten A. C.,
Abbott J. M.,
Osborne D.,
Austin D. W.,
Klein B.,
Costello A. J.,
Murphy D. G.
Publication year - 2014
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/pon.3552
Subject(s) - spouse , prostate cancer , qualitative research , coping (psychology) , population , thematic analysis , medicine , masculinity , focus group , psychology , gynecology , clinical psychology , cancer , family medicine , social science , environmental health , marketing , sociology , anthropology , psychoanalysis , business
Abstract Objective Prostate cancer and its treatment can result in numerous physical and psychological morbidities for the patient as well as his partner. This qualitative study aimed to explore the experiences of intimate spouses or partners of men diagnosed and/or treated for prostate cancer to better understand the personal impact of prostate cancer on the partner. Methods Twenty‐seven partners participated in this study. Six focus groups were convened, and one in‐depth interview was undertaken to explore the practical impact of prostate cancer on the intimate spouse/partner. All discussions were audio‐recorded and transcribed and then coded using a thematic approach. Results Six themes emerged: (a) The influence of the man's response to prostate cancer on the partner, (b) The need to be involved in treatment and medical decision making, (c) Supporting a man who is experiencing a loss of masculinity, (d) Degree of congruence between each partner's coping responses, (e) Constrained communication, and (f) Changed roles and increased practical management. Conclusions It is clear that prostate cancer impacts substantially on many areas of partner well‐being. An effective intervention provided to this population seems warranted and may lead to improvements in partner well‐being, assist the couple in lessening the impact of prostate cancer and its treatment on their relationship, and assist in the man's recovery. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.