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Restoring body image after cancer (ReBIC): A group therapy intervention
Author(s) -
Esplen Mary Jane,
Warner Ellen,
Boquiren Virginia,
Wong Jiahui,
Toner Brenda
Publication year - 2020
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.5304
Subject(s) - psychoeducation , distress , survivorship curve , intervention (counseling) , psychology , grief , psychotherapist , clinical psychology , group psychotherapy , psychosocial , medicine , cancer , psychiatry
Objectives Body image (BI) remains a significant survivorship challenge among breast cancer (BC) survivors. We describe an 8‐week group intervention— restoring body image after cancer (ReBIC)—developed to target BI distress for BC survivors. Methods The intervention was informed by interviews with BC survivors and by a descriptive, exploratory approach which adapted guided imagery exercises to address BI. Educational material was selected to address sociocultural factors that may contribute to BI distress and affect adjustment. Videotape reviews and content analyses further refined the intervention. Results The intervention incorporates three active components: psychotherapeutic group principles; guided imagery exercises to address BI; and psychoeducation on relevant socialization factors and gender‐based messages internalized by women in Western society. The therapeutic group was a supportive and effective way to assist BC survivors to gain insight on BI impacts, their histories, and relevant sociocultural factors contributing to BI distress. The group also facilitated the working through of grief over multiple losses. Guided imagery was well‐received, and appeared to help survivors identify negative and emerging self‐schema, as well as facilitate new self‐views. Specific themes included negative emotions associated with an altered body and self, grief and loss, isolation, difficulties with sexual intimacy, relationship challenges, and uncertainty around sense of self and future. Conclusion An empirically tested group therapy intervention is described and has implications for survivorship programs to help address BI‐related challenges. Future work could consider testing a similar approach tailored for other cancer populations.